Evaluation of nutritional and chemical profiles in tuber crops from mining and non-mining areas in Ahafo, Ghana

Abstract

The environmental repercussions in sub-Saharan Africa, predominantly in Ghana have raised precarious concerns about food safety and public health. This study evaluated the effect of mining on the nutritional and chemical composition of two staple food crops namely cassava (Manihot esculenta) and cocoyam (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) collected from mining-induced and non-mining communities in the Asutifi North District. A total of 120 tuber samples were sampled from 12 farms across four communities, including three mining impacted sites (Kenyasi No 1, Kenyasi No 2 and Ntotroso) and one non-mining site (Wamahinso). Samples were analysed for concentration of heavy metals (As, Pb Cd, Hg) and essential nutrients (P, K, Ca, Mg Na). Results revealed significantly elevated levels (p<0.05) of heavy metals in tubers from mining areas, with cocoyam and cassava from Kenyasi and Ntotroso exhibiting high levels of arsenic, cadmium and lead. Contrarywise, nutrient level particularly phosphorus and potassium, were markedly higher in crops from Wamahinso, which served as the non-mining site. The results unveiled serious consequences for food safety, public health and  agricultural sustainability in the mining communities. The study therefore suggests policy actions such as routine monitoring of food crops, environmental education, spatial zoning, and the integration of agricultural impact assessments into mining regulations. Protecting staple food crops from environmental contamination is essential for ensuring food security and supporting the livelihoods of  rural populations in Ghana and other resource-dependent regions.