Heavy metals in edible salt from Ghana with special reference to potential human health risk

The concentrations of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co), and manganese (Mn) in salts from four salt winning communities (Ada, Nyanyano, Saltpond, and Elmina) and two commonly consumed refined salts brands (coded A and B) in Ghana were measured using atomic absorption spectrometry. The concentrations of Pb, Cd, Co, and Mn in the samples ranged 0.24-0.68, 0.08-0.27, 1.67-1.72, and <0.08-0.27 mu g/g, respectively. The estimated daily intakes (EDIs) of the metals were below the tolerable daily limits. In addition, the health risk assessment indicated that the consumption of these salts poses no potential health risk and are therefore safe for humans.