HEAVY METAL IN BROILERS’ EDIBLE TISSUE AND SOURCES OF HEAVY METAL IN KHULNA, BANGLADESH (MS Thesis)- Degree Awarded

Abstract:

Heavy metal contamination in poultry poses significant public health and environmental concerns, particularly in regions where industrial and agricultural activities are prevalent. This study investigates the presence and bioaccumulation of heavy metals in the edible tissues like meat, liver and brain of broiler chickens in Khulna, Bangladesh during March 2024 to June 2024, with a focus on identifying potential sources of contamination. Concurrently, feed samples were analyzed to determine their contribution to heavy metal accumulation. Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer was used to detect and evaluate the degree of heavy metal (Pb, Cd, Cr, Mn and Ni) concentrations. The recorded mean concentration (mg/kg) of heavy metal were Pb (0.361 ± 0.0445), Cd (0.191 ± 0.031), Cr (4.722 ± 0.208), Mn (1.428 ± 0.091) and Ni (0.109 ± 0.006) in meat of chicken; whereas the concentration (mg/kg) level in liver were Pb (0.6515 ± 0.072), Cd (0.416 ± 0.078), Cr (8.79 ± 0.287), Mn (6.03 ± 0.444) and Ni (0.1165 ± 0.006) and the concentrations (mg/kg) in the brain samples were Pb (1.421 ± 0.1615), Cd (1.1276 ± 0.092), Cr (19.865 ± 0.572), Mn (34.22 ± 0.691) and Ni (1.382 ± 0.149).  Almost all the recorded values of Pb, Cd, Cr, Mn and Ni content in the samples were higher than the those of FAO and WHO permissible levels. Maximum concentration (mg/kg) of heavy metal in the feeds were Pb (1.89 ± 0.161), Cd (0.104 ± 0.007), Cr (21.147 ± 0.631), Mn (202.147 ± 3.094) and Ni (48.947 ± 2.791). Cr and Ni concentration (mg/kg) in poultry feed found comparatively higher than other metals. This study underscores the urgent need for stringent regulations on feed quality and environmental pollution to mitigate heavy metal contamination in poultry. The findings will contribute to raising awareness among stakeholders and policymakers, ensuring safer poultry consumption and improved outcomes.

• Supervision