Nutritional Composition and Chemical Safety of Wagashi Gassirè Cheese Sold in the Southern Benin Markets

Abstract

In this study, the nutritional composition and the chemical safety of Wagashi Gassirè (WG) cheese sold in southern Benin markets were assessed. For this purpose, 15 WG were analysed for fatty acids, essential minerals, and chemical hazards (dioxins, aflatoxin M1 (AFM1), biogenic amines, metals, antibiotic and pesticide residues). The risks related to arsenic, lead, aluminium, AFM1, histamine, and tyramine were calculated using the methods recommended by the European Food Safety Authority. Oleic, palmitic and stearic acids, calcium, and phosphorus were the main fatty acids and minerals detected. Lead (0.08 ± 0.06 mg/kg) and AFM1 (0.3 ± 0.0 µg/kg) were detected in all samples and exceeded the maximum level set by the international standard. Cadaverine and tyramine were the main biogenic amines found. No pesticide residues were detected using a multi-residue method targeting compounds. Residues of quinolones, tetracyclines, and colistin antibiotics were also detected. The calculated chronic exposure indicated no public health concern for the chemical contaminants targeted. Moreover, the average cancer risk related to AFM1 intake was 3 × 10−4 cases/105 persons/year for the Benin population through WG consumption. This study contributes to the nutritional characterization of WG and identifies lead and AFM1 as the most relevant chemical hazards of this product.