Evaluation of Nutrient and Heavy Metal Profiles of Processed Dried Meat (Kilishi) from Selected Areas in Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

Meat is one of the most affordable sources of protein and other key nutrients needed in human diets, and drying is a standard method of preservation in Nigeria. Our study evaluated the proximate composition and heavy metal concentrations of processed dried meat (Kilishi) sold in selected parts of Delta State, Nigeria. Kilishi samples were collected from three primary locations: Asaba, Warri, and Ozoro. Standard procedures were used to determine moisture, ash, crude protein, Fat, and carbohydrate contents, as well as the concentrations of heavy metals like cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), Iron (Fe), Nickel (Ni), and lead (Pb). Our results showed that moisture content ranged from 8.45 ± 0.01% in Warri to 9.78 ± 0.01% in Ozoro, while crude protein was highest in Warri (54.45 ± 0.01%) and lowest in Ozoro (52.01 ± 0.01%). Fat content ranged between 16.78 ± 0.01 % and 18.40 ± 0.17 %, and carbohydrate content varied from 10.44 ± 0.02 % to 13.91 ± 0.01 %. For heavy metals, cadmium and chromium were not detected in any of the samples assessed. Iron concentrations were highest in Asaba (39.06 ± 1.24 mg/kg) and lowest in Ozoro (35.56 ± 1.67 mg/kg). All the heavy metals detected were within the World Health Organisation/Food and Agriculture Organisation permissible limit. The results indicate that Kilishi sold in the study areas is rich in both protein and Fat, and the levels of the analysed heavy metals are within safe limits for human consumption. However, continuous monitoring is advised to ensure food safety and public health.