Milk and dairy products are essential components of diets and a source of livelihood across many African regions, but they may represent a significant route of exposure to toxic metals originating from environmental contamination. This study evaluated selected toxic metals (Pb, Cd, Cr, and Ni) and essential elements (Cu, Zn, Fe, Mn, Na, and K) in raw goat milk collected from eight production areas in Northern Morocco.

Samples were subjected to microwave-assisted digestion and analyzed using atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). Lead (Pb) was the predominant toxic metal, with concentrations ranging from undetected to 120.75 µg/kg, exceeding the maximum level of 20 µg/kg established by Commission Regulation (EU) 2023/915 and the Codex Alimentarius in most areas. Cadmium was detected only at trace levels below the limit of quantification and is reported on a semi-quantitative basis only; chromium occurred at low to moderate concentrations; and nickel was not detected.

While essential elements were within ranges consistent with Mediterranean extensive production systems, lead concentrations exceeded established regulatory limits. A screening-level dietary exposure assessment indicated that the estimated daily intake of lead for children exceeded the EFSA developmental-neurotoxicity reference point, raising public-health concerns for vulnerable populations. These results underscore the need for strengthened food-safety surveillance and improved environmental management to mitigate contamination risks and support the sustainability of small-scale dairy production systems in North Africa.