Formalin Content of Three Iced Fish Species (Mackerel, Horse Mackerel and Sadinella) Consumed In Calabar, Nigeria (Published)
The objective of this study is to determine the concentration of Formalin in three common species of iced fish namely; Mackerel, Horse mackerel and Sadinella consumed in Calabar, Cross River State of Nigeria. The aim is to ascertain whether the iced fishes consumed in Calabar contains formalin, and its concentration is within the permissible limits of the World Health Organization (WHO) in order to safeguard the health of the people. To achieve this, the samples were collected from the central market (Watt market) in Calabar and prepared by wet digestion method using a modified Nash’s reagent, and analysed using a UV spectrometer. The results of the analysis revealed that the average concentration of formalin in the three species of iced fish was 1.42, 1.83 and 2.20 mg/L for Mackerel, Horse mackerel and Sadinella respectively. Thus, the Formalin content of the fishes was in the order: Sadinella > Horse mackerel > Mackerel. These results indicate that the concentration of Formalin in the three species of iced fish consumed in the study area is low and within the permissible limit of WHO. Therefore, the consumption of these species of iced fish may not pose any health risk at the moment. However, effort has to be made by relevant authorities or agencies to ensure that Formalin-free ice fishes are not imported, produced or distributed for consumption in the State.
Keywords: Calabar, Concentration, Consumption, formalin, iced fish
Analytical Evaluation of Toxic Metals in the Perennial Water Source at the IMT Students’ Hostel (Published)
The Perennial Well water sources for the IMT Students’ hostellers which has locations at the three different hostels in Campus III of the Institute were analysed for toxic metal’s concentrations well as some important parameters such as pH, Turbidity, and Conductivity. The purpose of the research is to ascertain whether the water is safe for domestic use. The research was born out of the complaints by some of the water users who said that the water was causing them some itches. The respective concentration of the toxic metals in the said water sources is determined using the most appropriate analytically method such as Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer flame (AAS flame) for Lead, Nickel, Cobalt, Molybdenum, Chromium, Iron, Silver, Manganese, Zinc, Copper; Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer cold vapour (AAS cold vapour) for Mercury; Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer hydride (AAS hydride) for Arsenic and Selenium; Flame photometer for Magnesium; has been x-rayed. The pH was measured by Electrometric Method. The electrical conductivity was carried out according to APHA 2510B guideline while the Turbidity was done using EPA 180. From the results, one can see the number and names of the Well that is heavily affected by the toxic metals and thereby resort to the suggested means of battling with such water sources as given in this work.
Keywords: Concentration, IMT students’ hostel, perennial water, toxic metals