Quality assessment of some selected canned foods and energy drinks for human consumption by the determination of tin levels analysed by spectrophotometry technique using mixed surfactants

Abstract

The qualities of some selected canned foods and energy drinks for human consumption were investigated by the determination
of tin levels in the samples. Forty five replicates of nine different types of canned foods and energy drinks; meat (beef), fish in
tomato sauce, fish in vegetable oil, tomato paste, baked beans, infant food (cereal), infant milk and energy drinks (malt and red
grape) were used in the study. The levels of tin in these samples were analysed by spectrophotometry technique using mixed
surfactants of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide, nonylphenoxyPolyethoxyethanol with bromopyrogallol red as chromogenic
reagent. The Sn(IV) levels were within the range of 65.9±0.47 to 460.5±6.12 mg/kg. Repeatability as coefficient of variation
ranged from 0.36 – 1.62% depending on food evaluated. The recovery rates obtained by standard addition method were between
87.3 to 134.35% and averaged 110.8%. Statistical analysis using analysis of variance shows significant difference in means of
tin levels at 95% confidence level. The results of the study show that the tin levels in most of the samples (67%) are within the
safe limit for canned foods and energy drinks 250 and 150 mg/kg respectively as allowed by World Health Organisation, yet there
is the need to monitor the levels of tin in canned foods and energy drinks from time to time by relevant agencies to ensure the
quality and safety of these products for human consumption.