Assessment of Heavy Metal Concentration and Microbial Load in Fufu Processed From Milling Machines in Nsuta, Ashanti Region of Ghana.

Abstract

Mechanised milling of fufu improves efficiency. This study assessed the microbial quality and heavy metal concentrations of fufu processed in mechanised fufu milling machines. A longitudinal study design was employed for the study, where 60 samples (30 milled fufu and 30 unmilled ingredients) were collected from 10 milling sites, and 110 questionnaires were administered. Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment (QMRA) and Monte Carlo simulation were employed to estimate the infection risks associated with contaminated fufu. After milling, Salmonella, Shigella, and Total Coliforms increased significantly, while E. coli levels varied (p=0.008) by location. T test to assess the impacts of milling on the heavy metals showed Arsenic and zinc being most impacted (p <0.05). Lead concentration was also significantly (p = 0.01) impacted but varied (p = 0.00) across the various milling locations. Notably, 90% of milling operators reported daily cleaning of their work environment. Salmonella posed an infection risk even at minimal exposure, with all simulations classifying it as a high risk (Pinf > 0.001). Shigella and E. coli showed consistently high infection probabilities, peaking between 0.6 and 0.75. Cadmium exposure remained within safe limits (HQ < 1), while lead presented a potential health risk, with some values exceeding 1.0. Arsenic posed minimal non-carcinogenic risk. The assessment of fufu processed by milling machines in Nsuta-Ashanti revealed significant microbial contamination, with Salmonella, Shigella, E. coli, and total coliforms increasing after milling due to poor hygiene and cross-contamination. At the same time, heavy metals such as lead and cadmium posed potential health risks, emphasizing the need for improved sanitation and regulatory measures to ensure food safety.