Evaluation of the concentration of heavy metals in the feed and faecal samples of layer birds from selected farms in Ikenne Nigeria

This study was carried out to determine the concentration of heavy metals present in the feed and faecal samples of layer birds from commercial poultry farms at I kenne Local Government area of Ogun State, Nigeria. Feed and faecal samples were collected by random sampling from bags of feed and farm dumpsite respectively at seven commercial poultry farms with bird population of 2,000 and above. Collected samples were analysed for heavy metal concentration with atomic absorption spectrometer AAS model 210GP after wet digestion. Data analysed by descriptive statistics showed that both feed and faecal samples contained varying levels of Copper (Cu), Zinc (Zn), lead (Pb), Chromium (Cr) and Arsenic (As).The mean concentration (ppm) values of heavy metals obtained in poultry feed from all the farms falls within the National Research Council and European Union reference values. However, the concentration of Cr in all feed samples was below the NRC recommended value. In all the faecal samples collected, the concentrations (ppm) of Cu and As were lower than the concentrations obtained in feed samples. This could either mean that birds absorbed some of the metals in their diets or some of the metals in the faeces had been eroded off because the faeces were dumped in the open. Adequate incorporation, not exceeding the maximum required value of metals into poultry diet, is therefore recommended so that birds will not be deficient in having access to minerals required for their optimum growth, development and productivity. Also, chickens are nourished by the feed they consume and if the feed is excessive in heavy metal concentration, there will be a deposition of the metals in their body tissues. This will pose a poisonous and detrimental effect to the health of the human population that consumes such birds. Furthermore, it is recommended that faecal wastes should be properly dumped or recycled to avoid accumulation of heavy metals in soils or run off.