Impact of Selected Processing Methods of High-Level Cyanide in Cassava on Optic Neuropathy in Wistar Albino Rats—An Experimental Study

Background: Cassava tuber crop is a staple food rich in carbohydrates and utilized in various forms by millions of Nigerians. The storage root of the cassava contains linamarin, a cyanogenic glycoside that is easily hydrolyzed to release cyanide salt compounds which is toxic to the nervous system especially the optic nerve, sometimes leading to optic neuropathy and visual impairment. Aim: The aim of this study is to find out the impact of selected processing methods of high-level cyanide in cassava on optic neuropathy in Wistar albino rats. Methodology: Twenty-four Wistar albino rats were fed with different concentration and duration of predetermined high-cyanide content cassava root cultivar which was processed using different processing methods adopted by various communities in Rivers State, Nigeria (for human consumption). A control group of 3 Wistar albino rats was fed with normal “Growth Mesh” meals. The pre and post weights of the animals and the fundoscopic optic nerve status of the rats were evaluated after 30 and 60 days. SPSS Version 25 was employed for descriptive and inferential statistical analyses. A p-value of ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The Cassava species available in Rivers State have high cyanide content (2336.79 mg CN^-/kg dry weight of cassava). There was statistically significant reduction in the cyanide content (p = 0.000) depending on the various common processing methods (into garri for human consumption): 24 hours, 48 hours, fermentation; with and without red palm oil additive. The individual weights as well as the mean weight of the 24 rats in the experimental group increased gradually from the first week to the 9^th week with a slight weight reduction on the third and fourth weeks which was not statistically significant (p = 0.092). However, there was a steady increase in the weights of the animals in the control group throughout the 9 weeks. Varying degrees of optic neuropathy occurred, worse with the rats that had 24-hour fermented cassava twice daily for 60 days. The intra and inter group differences in the optic disc changes was statistically significant (p = 0.000). Conclusion: Longer duration of processing cassava roots into garri for human consumption reduces its cyanide content and minimizes the adverse impact on the optic nerve.