Geophagic Materials Characterization and Potential Impact on Human Health: The Case Study of Maputo City (Mozambique)

Abstract

This study aims to characterize and estimate risk assessment associated with geophagic materials consumption in Maputo city (Mozambique). Samples were collected in extraction mines, unprepared and prepared ones, and in Maputo markets. Fractions 60%) > Fe oxides/hidroxides > phyllosilicates (micas and kaolinite) > feldspars, suggesting a risk of dental enamel damage and perforation of the sigmoid colon. The chemical concentration of some elements was higher than recommended daily dose, suggesting a potential risk. However, geophagic materials’ chemical composition does not pose a carcinogenic risk.

Keywords

• geophagy
• geochemistry
• mineralogy
• risk assessment
• Maputo city