Zinc Content and Bioavailable Zinc of Run-off Water from Roofing Sheets in Jos Metropolis, Nigeria

Abstract

Zinc, a micronutrient, a nutritionally essential trace element, plays important biochemical roles as a component of many metalloenzymes and proteins. Zinc deficiency leads to compromised immune function and hence illnesses from a range of diseases. In this study, bioavailable zinc from water collected under roofs in Jos, Nigeria, was assessed using animal models. The aim of the study was to determine whether this water has as much zinc as the tap water commonly used by the inhabitants. Rats in the experimental group were fed rain water samples, collected as run-off, having the highest zinc content. Rats in control group were fed water from tap. All feedings were done normally for 21days ad libitum. Plasma was collected and analysed for their zinc content using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Statistical analysis of the result showed that, there is no significant difference (p > 0.05) between the two groups. Therefore, rain water collected as run-off under roofs in Jos is as good as the normal tap water consumed in the city in terms of zinc content and bioavailable. Further research is still needed to determine whether these zinc sources can meet up the RDA.