Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1 Department of Food Science and Agro Processing, P.O.Box 3006 Chuo Kikuu.
2 P.O.Box 3006 Dept of Food Science and Agro-Processing, SUA
Abstract
Street-vended foods are perceived as a significant public health risk. Foods wrapped in ink-printed papers have been associated with several health issues, including cancer, neurological disorders, reproductive complications, and damage to the kidneys and liver. This study examined the heavy metal contamination and microbiological quality of ready-to-eat foods (chapatti) wrapped in ink-printed paper in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Samples were collected and evaluated for lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), cadmium (Cd), Total Plate Count (TPC), Staphylococcus aureus, and E. coli using standard laboratory techniques, with data analysis conducted using Python programming tools. The results indicated that the concentrations of Pb, Cr, and Cd were all significantly higher (p < 0.05) in wrapped samples relative to unwrapped controls, with mean levels varying from 0.05–0.06 mg/kg, 0.07 mg/kg, and 0.06–0.07 mg/kg, respectively. Likewise, wrapped samples had significant microbial contamination, with mean total plate count (TPC) and Staphylococcus aureus levels of 2.64 ± 0.17 Log CFU/g and 1.67 ± 0.16 Log CFU/g, respectively, while these bacteria were not present in the controls. No samples tested positive for E. coli. Despite heavy metal concentrations being below existing regulatory limits, the significant increase in contamination in ink-printed papers wrapped foods raises a public health issue. The results clearly demonstrate that the wrapping material is a principal source of contamination. Therefore, it is advised that regulatory bodies, including the Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) and local government health officials, implement prohibitions on the utilization of printed materials, such as newspapers, for food contact.
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