Evaluation of Iodine and Goitrogens in Selected Vegetables from Owerri Imo State in Nigeria

Abstract

The prevalence of iodine deficiency disorders remains a challenge in numerous developing nations despite widespread advocacy for iodized salt and iodine-fortified foods. As a result, this study assesses the iodine content of ten selected vegetables—water leaf, okra, green, tomatoes, lettuce, “okazi”, “ugu”, cabbage, “uha” leaf, and garden egg leaf. The result revealed varying iodine concentrations among these vegetables: 159.93±2.25 μg/kg for water leaf, 151.27±1.61 μg/kg for okra, and 160.43±4.37 μg/kg for green. Tomatoes exhibited 110.10±2.76 μg/kg, while lettuce had 181.27±1.76 μg/kg. “Okazi”, “ugu”, cabbage, “uha” leaf, and garden egg leaf showed iodine levels of 155.10±3.50 μg/kg, 153.43±2.47 μg/kg, 96.10±2.00 μg/kg, and 127.77±3.01 μg/kg, respectively. The evaluation for goitrogens demonstrated sufficient presence in these vegetables, with notable exceptions such as zinc, which was found in lower concentrations in “ugu”, lettuce, “okazi”, and cabbage, and was absent in “uha” leaf, garden egg leaf, green, water leaf, and okra.  Based on these results, it was concluded that Owerri's vegetables exhibit relatively high iodine content within recommended dietary allowances. Consequently, ongoing vigilance is advised for the salt iodization program to prevent excess iodine intake, particularly among high-risk populations.