Bromate and trace metal levels in bread loaves from outlets within Ile-Ife Metropolis, Southwestern Nigeria

•This study evaluates the levels of bromate and trace metals in the bread loaves sold within Ile-Ife, Nigeria.•Bromate was determine via spectrophotometric method while trace metals were profiled using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer.•Study revealed that many bread bakers had not fully complied with the bromate-free rule stipulated by government contrary to “bromate free” inscribed on the labels of the bread.•The bread samples contained both essential and toxic trace metals to levels that could threaten the health of consumers over prolonged regular consumption.