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ABSTRACT
Pumpkin leaf is a widely cultivated and consumed vegetable globally, cherished for its culinary versatility and its health benefit. However, heavy metal contamination in this vegetable can give rise to significant health risk in consumers. This study aims to investigate the levels of Arsenic (As), Lead (Pb) and Chromium (Cr) in pumpkin leaves gotten from two various markets in Benin city, Nigeria. The study assessed the antioxidant enzymes activities in pumpkin leaves across both markets to understand the implications of heavy metal contamination. Various pumpkin leaves samples were collected from Uselu market and Ikpoba Hill market. The samples were analysed for Lead, Arsenic and Chromium levels using atomic absorption spectroscopy. Antioxidant enzymes activities were also evaluated using standard biochemical assays. Arsenic was not detected in any of the samples from either market. The concentrations of Lead in samples were higher in Ikpoba hill market (0.1±0.040mg/kg) compared to Uselu Market (0.1±0.033mg/kg). The concentrations of Chromium in the samples were higher in Ikpoba hill market (1.03±0.327) compared to Uselu market (0.77±0.117). The concentrations of SOD, CAT and MDA for the pumpkin leaves from both markets were not significantly different at p<0.05. However, the concentration of GPx from the samples were significantly different for both markets at p<0.05. This study underscores the need for vigilant monitoring of heavy metal contents in pumpkin leaves to safeguard consumer health, stressing adherence to safety standard set by organization like world Health Organization (WHO). These findings advance our understanding of food safety particularly in pumpkin leaf consumption, emphasizing the necessity for food safety regulations in Benin City, Nigeria.
