Heavy metals and Microbial Quality of Zoom-Koom sold in Tamale’s Central Business District

Abstract

Food safety issues continue to be prevalent worldwide and pose ongoing challenges for both the public and governmental authorities. Zoom-Koom is a nourishing ready-to-eat drink eaten by various families in Ghana, especially in the northern region. The study examines heavy metal levels as well as microbial quality in Zoom-Koom sold in Tamale's Central Business District. Pb, Fe, and Zn concentrations were below the regulatory bodies' permitted level.  Also, the study found a high level of Salmonella spp., which implies a high level of poor personal hygienic practices and inappropriate washing of raw materials used in the preparation of Zoom-Koom. All of the Zoom- Koom samples that tested positive with Salmonella spp. are deemed unfit for human consumption. It is advised that the Food and Drugs Authority should ensure rigorous adherence to food quality standards in the Central Business District of Tamale.

Keywords: Zoom-Koom, Lead, Iron, Zinc, Salmonella spp.

DOI: 10.7176/JNSR/16-1-06

Publication date: May 30^th 2025