DETERMINATION OF SELECTED HEAVY METALS IN PUMPKIN SEED, PEEL, AND FLESH SAMPLE FROM SANBITU KEBELE IN SINANA WOREDA OF BALE ZONE

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the heavy metal content in different parts of pumpkin (pulp, flesh, and seeds) and assess the associated health risks for consumers. Growing worries about food safety and the possible health effects of heavy metal contamination in agricultural goods are the driving forces behind this study. Thus, by using microwave plasma atomic emission spectrometry, the primary heavy metals (Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, and Cd) in pumpkin samples were measured. Risk ratios (HRs) and total cancer risk (TCR) related to eating various pumpkin sections were used to evaluate non-carcinogenic dangers. The suggested daily intakes were computed and contrasted with predetermined safety limits.   Microwave plasma atomic emission spectrometry was used to test metal concentrations, guaranteeing great accuracy and dependability. The study's findings demonstrate that the pumpkin's metal distribution is uneven.   The pumpkin's flesh and seeds are incredibly high in iron and zinc, which can aid the local population with mineral shortages like anemia. However, the edible pulp's lead and chromium concentrations-4,679 mg/L and 4,437 mg/L, respectively far beyond the WHO's global safety standards. The objective risk ratio for lead is greater than 1.0, and the cumulative risk index for all metals combined also exceeds the safety threshold. This indicates that long-term daily consumption of these pumpkins poses a significant risk of chronic health problems, particularly neurological and kidney damage due to lead exposure. The strong correlation between toxic metals such as Pb, Ni, and Cd in the pulp suggests that the exterior of Sanbitu Kebele pumpkin is the most affected by environmental contamination, even though the pulp only contains iron and chromium. The presence of Pb (Lead) and Cr (Chromium) in the pumpkin—specifically at the alarming levels shows that the crop has reached a state of extreme toxicity that far exceeds international safety limits. Thus, removing the pulp before consumption is strongly recommended to reduce lead and nickel intake. Environmental monitoring of soil and water in the area is necessary to identify the source of contamination and ensure food security