Assessment of Some Heavy Metal Concentrations in Noodle Samples from Iraqi Markets and Study Probabilistic Health Risks Associated
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Using the acid digestion method and flame atomic absorption spectrometry, the current study examined the amounts of heavy metals, lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), and nickel (Ni), in popular instant noodles used in Iraq (imported or local). In addition, a non-carcinogenic risk assessment was also conducted by determining a target hazard quotient (THQ) for the heavy metal ingestion risk to children and adults. The results showed a large range in heavy metal concentrations among the brands with lead the range of 0.94- 1.7 mg/kg, which is higher than the amount refered by the WHO of 0.5 mg/kg, cadmium in the range of 0.064 mg/kg to 0.13 mg/kg, higher than the recommended level by the World Health Organisation of 0.03 mg/kg, chromium in the range of 0.19- 0.41 mg/kg, higher than the recommended level by the WHO of 0.19 mg/kg, and nickel in the range of 0.008- 0.021mg/kg, greater than the 0.01 mg/kg WHO-recommended level. The Target Hazard Quotient (THQ), which is based on Monte Carlo simulations, was used to evaluate the health hazards. The results showed that all the elements' THQ values were below 1, meaning there was no immediate non-cancer threat to children and adults. Nickel and chromium were not found to have any effect, however, cadmium and lead were responsible for more than 99% of the total risk. Also, it was found that children were more susceptible to the negative effects than the adults. If cumulative health effects are possible with repeated exposures it means that continued monitoring programs of heavy metals in foods are needed and the quality of the raw materials and manufacturing process should be improved.
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