An Exploration of Possible Consequences of Indiscriminate Consumption of Bissap Drink in Ghana

Abstract

Aim: To study the chemical and microbiological profiles of dried Hibiscus sabdariffa calyces and bissap drinks prepared from these calyces and relate the findings to current prevalence of noncommunicable diseases in the Cape Coast Metropolis. Study Design: Experimental design. Place and Duration of Study: The chemical aspect was carried out at the School of Agriculture Laboratory of the University of Cape Coast and the microbiological aspect was at the Food Research Institute, Accra from February to April, 2016. Methodology: Standard methods and tests were used to determine the chemical and microbiological variables. The Kjeldahl method was used to determine protein, the amount of potassium and sodium were determined using a flame photometer, the complex metric titration was used to determine the amount of calcium and magnesium. The amounts of Iron, Copper and Zinc were also determined. The pH was measured using a pH meter, titratable acidity using NaOH titration and total sugars using the colorimetric method. Total Viable Cell count and the identification of probable presence of Escherichia coli, Salmonella species and Coliforms in the bissap drinks were also carried out. Results: Â remarkable amount of potassium was found in the range of 10874.4 –1667. 1 ug/g). Other elements in the bissap were also determined in descending order as sodium (5425.3 - 6058.4 ug/g), iron (2052.9 - 2099.6 ug/g), zinc (90.6 – 94.1 ug/g) and phosphorus (1175.5 – 1187.2 ug/g). Coliforms and Escherichia coli were identified while Salmonella species were not identified. Low pH, titratable acidity and total sugars ranged from 2.39 – 2.52; 0.27 – 0.30 and 7.2 – 14.0 respectively. Conclusion: Hibiscus sabdariffa with its chemical constituents may promote health when used in preparing bissap drink and consumed but the acidity and high sugars present in the drink may overshadow its health benefits and cause diseases especially if taken in large quantities indiscriminately. It’s recommended that consumers drink bissap in moderation to avoid its probable health consequences.