Assessment of tin and lead in commercial canned foods and associated health risk indicators

This study assesses the levels and health risks of inorganic tin (Sn) and total lead (Pb) in commercial canned food samples, including pineapple chunks, baked beans, green peas, and sweetened corn. Four canned food products from two brands each were analyzed in triplicate. Samples analysed via inductively coupled plasma–optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). Sn was detected only in acidic foods, with the highest concentrations found in pineapple chunks (Brand A: 73.10 ± 0.92 mg/kg; Brand B: 44.00 ± 0.30 mg/kg), suggesting pH-driven migration from packaging. Pb was present in all samples, ranging from 0.15 to 0.21 mg/kg, indicating broader environmental or agricultural sources. Sn levels were below the maximum permissible limit set by Malaysian Food Act 1983 (Act 281). Health risk was evaluated using Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) and Hazard Quotient (HQ). The highest EDI values were 0.03 mg/kg/day for Sn and 5.57 × 10⁻⁵ mg/kg/day for Pb. HQ values for Sn were below 1, suggesting no significant non-carcinogenic risk at current intake levels. Despite low risk, detection of both metals especially in commonly consumed canned goods warrants closer inspection of food safety thresholds and manufacturing practices. This study provides current, Malaysia-specific data that can support regulatory monitoring and public awareness.