Biochemical Changes in Hematological and Liver Parameters in Albino Rats Exposed to Azo Dye Adulterated Palm Oil

Abstract

In West Africa, the manufacturing and processing of palm oil are done on a small, medium, and large scale, it is therefore almost impossible to detect fraud in the system. A major disadvantage associated with the use of adulterants in palm oil is that the adulterants have not undergone adequate research and the degree of health hazards they can pose to humans when consumed. This study was designed to evaluate the toxic effects of azo dye adulterated palm oil on hematological and liver parameters in albino rats. Twenty-five albino rats were divided into five groups and treated as thus; group I (control), groups II and III (1 ml/kg of unadulterated and adulterated palm oil respectively), groups IV and V (50 mg/kg Sudan III and IV respectively) for 28 days. Hematological parameters were determined using an automated analyzer and liver function tests were determined using analytical test kits. The result showed a significant increase (p < 0.05) in the activity of liver enzymes aminotransferases (ALT, AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and bilirubin in groups III, IV, and V when compared to control groups (I and II), while higher values of albumin concentration were observed in control groups when compared to other groups. A non-significant (p > 0.05) decrease in red and white blood cell indices was observed in groups III, IV, and V in comparison to control groups. This research suggests that exposure to adulterated palm oil can predispose an individual to hepatocellular damage/malfunction and blood cells lysis, thus, not safe for consumption.