Determination of Aflatoxins and Selected Heavy Metals in Rice Varieties Cultivated in Fogera, Amhara Region, Ethiopia

Abstract

ABSTRACT Rice ( Oryza sativa L.) is a vital staple crop for nearly half the world's population. This study investigates the levels of aflatoxins (AFB 1 , AFB 2 , AFG 1 , and AFG 2 ) and selected heavy metals (Cd, Pb, and Cr) and essential elements (Mn, Fe, Mg, Cu, and Zn) in rice varieties cultivated in Fogera, Amhara Region, Ethiopia. A total of 11 composite samples from three rice varieties were collected to assess aflatoxins (AFB 1 , AFB 2 , AFG 1 , and AFG 2 ) using high‐performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection (HPLC‐FLD) and heavy metals using microwave plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (MP‐AES). No aflatoxins were detected in any samples, indicating effective harvesting and storage practices. However, metal concentrations varied, with mean levels of Zn (250 ± 3.0–335.85 ± 4.9 mg/kg), Cd (5.91 ± 4.0–13.71 ± 2.9 mg/kg), Pb (ND–0.55 ± 0.01 mg/kg), and others exceeding WHO/FAO permissible limits. Magnesium was found in the highest concentrations. Despite elevated metal levels, the health risk assessment indicated no significant noncarcinogenic hazards for consumers from these rice varieties. The study recommends ongoing monitoring of contaminants and further investigation into their sources.