POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC HYDROCARBONS IN FOOD CROPS GROWN IN HIGH- AND LOW-CRUDEOIL-PRODUCING COMMUNITIES OF RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA: A COMPARATIVE CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
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Abstract
Background:
Dietary sources of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) through food crops grown in polluted soils, prepared/processed through drying, frying, grilling, toasting, roasting, smoking, drinks, and herbivorous animals account for 70% of transmission into the human body, with associated carcinogenic health consequences, compared to non-dietary sources (inhalation and skin contact).
Aim:
This study assessed and compared the concentrations of PAHs in food crops grown in high- and low crude oil–producing communities in Rivers State, Nigeria.
Methodology:
Food samples were collected from 30 geo-referenced sampling points across 10 communities. Laboratory analysis followed approved APHA and ASTM standard methods. Data were analysed using SPSS version 26, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05 and 95% confidence level.
Results:
Of the sixteen priority PAH compounds analysed, eight were detected above the laboratory limit of detection (LOD). All detected PAHs had mean concentrations below the European Union regulatory limit for PAHs in food (benzo[a]pyrene equivalent guideline value: 1.0 µg/kg). However, five PAHs had significantly higher mean concentrations in high-oil-producing communities than in the low-oil-producing communities (p< 0.05). In descending order of statistical significance, phenanthrene showed the strongest difference (p=0.003), followed by acenaphthylene (p=0.007), acenaphthene (p=0.021), anthracene (p=0.032), and fluorene (p=0.048). Acenaphthylene recorded the highest mean concentration, while pyrene had the lowest.
Conclusion:
Food crops from both study areas were contaminated with PAHs, with significantly higher levels observed in high oil-producing communities, likely due to oil exploration activities and artisanal refining. Strengthened regulatory controls and remediation strategies are recommended to mitigate long-term exposure risks.
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References
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