Evaluation of potentially toxic elements and bromate levels in bread commonly consumed in Nigeria for human health risk assessment

Trace elements and potassium bromate represent health risks in food substances owing to their potential toxicity. Bread samples were obtained from different stores in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria. The levels of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) (cadmium, chromium, cobalt, copper, lead, manganese, nickel, and zinc) and potassium bromate were determined in the bread samples using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer and Ultraviolet Spectrophotometer respectively. The results of the study showed that copper had the highest mean concentration (39.20 ± 1.12 mg/kg) while lead had the lowest mean concentration (0.42 ± 0.02 mg/kg). The levels of the PTEs followed the order: Cu > Zn > Cr > Mn > Ni > Co > Cd > Pb. The concentrations of all the investigated elements exceeded the FAO/WHO legislations. Potassium bromate was undetected in the samples. The target hazard quotients of Cr, Cu, and Cd were greater than 1, as opposed to the other elements which were less than 1. The children were the more vulnerable population given that their total target hazard quotient (35.09) was higher than the adults (9.35) equivalent. Carcinogenic health risks (CR > 10−5) were associated with bread consumption. Due to possible contamination sources emanating from used equipments and processing methods, compliance with regulatory agencies towards ensuring a healthy production environment should be enforced.