Abstract
Camel and sheep meats are considered major sources of animal-derived protein, vitamins and minerals in certain parts of the world such as Arabian Peninsula, India and Middle East countries. Despite these health benefits, the safety of sheep and camel meat may be compromised by the presence of heavy metals. The monitoring of metal concentrations is therefore important to ensure compliance with food safety regulations and consequent consumer protection. This study was undertaken to estimate the toxic metals (lead, cadmium and arsenic) and the essential trace elements (copper, zinc and iron) contents in the edible tissues (muscle, livers and kidneys) of both camel and sheep slaughtered at Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia. The dietary intake and human health risk assessment of the examined metals due to consumption of these tissues by Saudi population were estimated. The results indicate that the tested metals were detected in all the tissue samples with variable concentrations. Residual concentrations of all examined metals were within the maximum permissible limits set by European Union, Food and Agricultural Organization except for the arsenic. Human health risk assessment revealed that the detected concentrations of cadmium and lead might not possess health hazards. Nevertheless, care is imperative regarding As especially in Saudi Arabia because of the excessive meat consumption.