Lead contamination of ipomea batatas (sweet potato) grown in selected areas of Kampala

Abstract

The study investigated the extent contamination of Lead in sweet potato grown in areas within or surrounding Kampala city. The samples collected from the city and/or around it were compared with a control sample from a rural area, and with the WHO/FAO recommended levels for lead concentrations in food. Plant samples were collected from mature plants of harvestable age, and the harvestable parts, (tubers) are what was collected. The samples were well prepared according to a standard procedure, digested and the level of heavy metals determined using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy.