This study aimed to assess the levels of heavy metals, specifically Lead (Pb), Cadmium (Cd), and Chromium (Cr), in selected vegetables sold at five different markets in Gombe State, Nigeria: Arawa Market, Tumfure Market, Kasuwan Mata, Pantami, and Main Market. The concentrations of these heavy metals were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). The results indicated that Lead levels ranged from 0.007 to 0.010 mg/kg, Cadmium from 0.013 to 0.057 mg/kg, and Chromium from 0.733 to 2.333 mg/kg across all samples, except for Capsicum annuum and Lycopersicon esculentum, which were not detected in any of the market sites. The highest concentration of Chromium (2.333 mg/kg) was found in Capsicum annuum at Pantami Market, while the lowest Lead concentration (0.007 mg/kg) was found in Capsicum chinense. All detected heavy metal concentrations were within the permissible limits of 0.3 mg/kg for Lead and 0.10 mg/kg for Cadmium, except for the concentration of Chromium in Capsicum annuum from Pantami Market, which exceeded the FAO/WHO (2001) stipulated limit of 2.30 mg/kg. Therefore, while consumption of these vegetables may not pose a risk for Lead and Cadmium toxicity, it may lead to Chromium toxicity if Capsicum annuum from Pantami Market is consumed in significant quantities.
Keywords: ** Heavy metals, vegetables, Gombe Metropolis, health risks, food safety.
