Determination of lead and cadmium in raw and pasteurized milk in relation to human health risk assessment: case study in the state of Selangor / NazatuI Hayati Abdul Rani

Rapid pace of industrialization and urbanization that have occurred, especially in recent decades, have brought about in its wake changes in the lifestyles of Malaysians. These changes include dietary habits and food preferences which, in turn, have bearings on food production, food imports, food quality and safety from production to ready-to-eat stage (Lin 1998). Heavy metals can enter the human body through two main routes including through inhalation and ingestion, intake via ingestion depends upon food habit (Farid, 2004). Toxic metal content of milk and dairy product is due to several environmental conditions, the manufacturing process and the possible contamination during several steps of the manufacturing process (Anastasio, 2006). Objective: The objective of this study is to determine the level of lead and cadmium in raw cow's milk and pasteurized milk. Methodology: Forty nine sample of raw and pasteurized milk were taken and 100 questionnaires were also randomly distributed to obtain information on milk consumption and awareness level at different location in Selangor. The milk samples were treated with wet acid digestion and then are subjected to Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS) for lead and cadmium trace (AOAC Official Method 999.11, 1999). Hazard Index (HI) was also determined. Result: There are violations of cadmium with the Food Act 1983 Standard of Heavy Metal for cadmium, lmg/1. Analysis of the questionnaire shows significant level of awareness of heavy metal in milk (p<0.005). HI is less than 1, no chronic effect anticipated. Conclusion: The level of lead is not detected and the level of cadmium violates the Food Act 1983 standard. The HI indicates the milk is safe for consumption and high awareness of heavy metal in milk. Recommendation: The perception of consumers needs to be changed in regards to milk safety and the manufacturing company need to comply with standards and requirements.