Concentrations of selected metals in candies and chocolates consumed in southern Nigeria

Results are presented for the determination of levels of Ca, Cd, Ni, Cr, Cu, Pb, Mn, Zn Fe, Co and Mg in candies and chocolates consumed in southern Nigeria. Mean concentrations of metals in both confectionaries ranged 7.7-1405.2 mu g/g1 for Ca, 0.001-0.2 mu g/g for Cd, 1.4-7.9 mu g/g for Ni, 0.4-3.0 mu g/g for Cr, 0.08-2.3 mu g/g for Pb, 0.4-12.6 mu g/g for Mn, 0.6-8.0 mu g/g for Zn, 1.7-12.3 mu g/g for Fe, 0.05-1.49 mu g/g for Co, and 8.4-576.1 mu g/g for Mg. The data showed that that these metals are not present at harmful levels. Concentrations of nickel and chromium were slightly elevated but were comparable to levels reported in similar food items elsewhere in the world.