Evaluation of mercury, cadmium and lead levels in fish and fishery products imported by air in North Italy from extra-European Union Countries

Risk Assessment and Sources Apportionment of Toxic Metals in Two Commonly Consumed Fishes from a Subtropical Estuarine Wetland System

The widespread occurrence of heavy metals in aquatic environments, resulting in their bioaccumulation within aquatic organisms like fish, presents potential hazards to human health. This study investigates the concentrations of five toxic heavy metals (Pb, Hg, Zn, Cu, and Cr) and their potential health implications in two economically important fish species (Otolithoides pama and Labeo bata) from a subtropical estuarine wetland system (Feni estuary, Bangladesh). Muscle and gill samples from 36 individual fish were analyzed using energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF). The results revealed that the average quantities of heavy metals in both fishes' muscle followed the declining order of Zn (109.41-119.93 mg/kg) > Cu (45.52-65.43 mg/kg) > Hg (1.25-1.39 mg/kg) > Pb (0.68-1.12 mg/kg) > Cr (0.31-5.82 mg/kg). Furthermore, Zn was found to be present in the highest concentration within the gills of both species. While the levels of Cu, Zn, and Cr in the fish muscle were deemed acceptable for human consumption, the concentrations of Pb and Hg exceeded the permissible limits (>0.5 mg/kg) for human consumption. Different risk indices, including estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), hazard index (HI), and carcinogenic or target risk (TR), revealed mixed and varying degrees of potential threat to human health. According to the EDI values, individuals consuming these fish may face health risks as the levels of Zn, Cu, and Cr in the muscle are either very close to or exceed the maximum tolerable daily intake (MTDI) threshold. Nevertheless, the THQ and HI values suggested that both species remained suitable for human consumption, as indicated by THQ (<1) and HI (<1) values. Carcinogenic risk values for Pb, Cr, and Zn all remained within permissible limits, with TR values falling below the range of (10-6 to 10-4), except for Zn, which exceeded it (>10-4). The correlation matrix and multivariate principal component analysis (PCA) findings revealed that Pb and Cr primarily stemmed from natural geological backgrounds, whereas Zn, Cu, and Hg were attributed to human-induced sources such as agricultural chemicals, silver nanoparticles, antimicrobial substances, and metallic plating. Given the significance of fish as a crucial and nutritious element of a balanced diet, it is essential to maintain consistent monitoring and regulation of the levels and origins of heavy metals found within it.

Human health risks assessment of the fluctuations in mercury levels in seafood from different key regions of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Mercury (Hg) contamination on the Brazilian southeast coast has been highlighted, especially in relation to species of commercial importance. This study aimed to quantify the Hg concentration in species of mussels, fish, and crabs obtained from fishing colonies on the beaches of the west and south of the city of Rio de Janeiro, investigate the possible effect of seasonality, sex, and location sampling, and finally, the risk to consumer health in four different age groups. The difference between cooked and raw commercially available mussel samples was also verified. The main results highlight that the fish presented higher levels of Hg and that the mussel samples sold cooked presented lower levels of Hg when compared to the raw ones. For Micropogonias furnieri, Sardinella brasiliensis, and Callinectes spp., the season variable influenced Hg concentrations, while only for Merluccius merluccius was a difference between the sexes identified, with males having the highest values. Although Hg concentrations in animals were below the permitted limit, consumption of all species exceeded the monthly intake limit for this metal. For the hazard quotient (HQ) calculation, most species presented HQ > 1, especially when ingested by the child population. These results are fundamental for designing consumption strategies for these animals, in order to prioritize the acquisition of some species over others, depending on the location and/or season, for each age group, with the aim of maintaining seafood consumption with minimal risk to the population's health.

Mercury contamination in seafood from an aquatic environment impacted by anthropic activity: seasonality and human health risk

Petroleum activity and the dumping of domestic and industrial sewage are important sources of mercury (Hg) contamination in the aquatic environment. Thus, this article aimed to biomonitor the Hg concentration in fish, mussels, and swimming crabs of commercial importance in southeastern Brazil. The quantifications were carried out over a year to verify the influence of seasonality. Finally, a risk assessment was applied to identify whether the concentrations found could lead to long-term damage to the population. Our results indicate that the contaminations were higher in spring, summer, and winter than in autumn, mainly among fish and swimming crabs. The results of quantification in the animal and estimated monthly intake, despite being below the limit established nationally and internationally, were indicative of risk for these two animals after calculating the Hazard quotient. The highest risk values were attributed to the infant population. Based on the data generated by this work, the consumption of mussels is encouraged throughout the year, to the detriment of the other types of seafood studied, especially during summer, spring, and winter. Our work reinforces the importance of risk assessment for a more reliable understanding of the impact of contaminants in seafood on the population's health.

Trace elements in Foodstuffs from the Mediterranean Basin-Occurrence, Risk Assessment, Regulations, and Prevention strategies: A review

Trace elements (TEs) are chemical compounds that naturally occur in the earth's crust and in living organisms at low concentrations. Anthropogenic activities can significantly increase the level of TEs in the environment and finally enter the food chain. Toxic TEs like cadmium, lead, arsenic, and mercury have no positive role in a biological system and can cause harmful effects on human health. Ingestion of contaminated food is a typical route of TEs intake by humans. Recent data about the occurrence of TEs in food available in the Mediterranean countries are considered in this review. Analytical methods are also discussed. Furthermore, a discussion of existing international agency regulations will be given. The risk associated with the dietary intake of TEs was estimated by considering consumer exposure and threshold values such as Benchmark dose lower confidence limit and provisional tolerable weekly intake established by the European Food Safety Authority and the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives, respectively. Finally, several remediation approaches to minimize TE contamination in foodstuffs were discussed including chemical, biological, biotechnological, and nanotechnological methods. The results of this study proved the occurrence of TEs contamination at high levels in vegetables and fish from some Mediterranean countries. Lead and cadmium are more abundant in foodstuffs than other toxic trace elements. Geographical variations in TE contamination of food crops clearly appear, with a greater risk in developing countries. There is still a need for the regular monitoring of these toxic element levels in food items to ensure consumer protection.

Trace metal exposure and human health consequences through consumption of market-available Oreochromis niloticus (L.) in Bangladesh

Using Oreochromis niloticus (L.), commonly known as tilapia, as a model, this study evaluated the exposure of trace metal and their risk assessment on human health. In addition, the status of amino acids, fatty acids, vital elements, and their benefits is also studied. Estimating the nutrient composition of fish muscle is necessary to ensure that it meets the requirements for human health, food regulations, and commercial specifications. The species examined contained appreciable concentrations of amino acids, fatty acid content, and minerals, suggesting that the fish species could be a good source of protein, fat, and minerals. Hazardous heavy metals were found to be lower compared to their corresponding maximum tolerable limits. The order of trace metals is Zn (22,709 µg/kg) > Fe (19,878 µg/kg) > Cu (1261 µg /kg) > Mn (1228 µg/kg) > Cr (474 µg/kg) > Ni (152 µg/kg) As (318 µg /kg) > Pb (281 µg/kg) > Co (24 µg /kg) > Cd (13 µg/kg) > Hg (5 µg/kg); a number of health-related indices, including estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), and hazard index (HI), as well as carcinogenic risk (CR) indices for adult and children, were calculated to evaluate the human health hazard of the heavy metals. The THQ and HI of heavy metals for tilapia are lower than 1, posing a non-carcinogenic threat to human health due to the biomagnifications of these deadly poisonous metals. Principal component, cluster, and correlation analyses delineated the common probabilistic sources of metal contamination origin and significant inter-parameter associations. Although no human health risks for the consumption of tilapia was found, more attention must be paid for the monitoring of Oreochromis niloticus before entering the market.

Food Safety Risks Posed by Heavy Metals and Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) related to Consumption of Sea Cucumbers

The global production of sea cucumbers was 245 thousand tons in 2020. Sea cucumbers are important food items in Asian and Pacific cuisines, the highest proportion being consumed in China as "bêche-de-mer" dried, gutted, boiled and salted body wall. However, consumption of sea cucumbers is expanding in China and globally, and the high demand has led to decline in populations of sea cucumbers, due to overexploitation. Aquaculture, together with novel fisheries on new species in new regions is easing the demand. Thus, an assessment of food safety is warranted. A literature search on food hazards was performed. A high proportion of the selected papers concerned heavy metals and metalloid hazards, such as mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), and arsenic (As). No specific maximum limits (MLs) have been set for contents of these in sea cucumbers. Thus, the contents were compared with maximum limits set for aquatic animals in general or bivalve molluscs if available. With regard to Hg and Cd levels, none of the samples exceeded limits set by the European Commission or the National Standard of China, while for Pb, samples from highly industrialised areas exceeded the limits. Surprisingly, data on contaminants such as POPs, including dioxins and dl-PCB, PAH and PFAS as well as microbial hazards were scarce. The availability of fresh sea cucumber has increased due to aquaculture. To preserve the original flavour some consumers are reported to prefer to eat raw sea cucumber products, sashimi and sushi, which inevitably causes challenges from the microbial food safety perspective. Altogether, this paper highlights specific needs for knowledge, in particular when harvesting new species of sea cucumbers or in industrialized regions. Systematic monitoring activities, appropriate guidelines and regulations are highly warranted to guide the utilization of sea cucumbers.

A comprehensive review of heavy metal pollution in the coastal areas of Bangladesh: abundance, bioaccumulation, health implications, and challenges

The coastal zone of Bangladesh, with a population density of 1278 people per square kilometer, is under serious threat due to heavy metal pollution. To date, many studies have been conducted on the heavy metal contamination in soils, water, aquatic animals, and plants in the coastal zone of Bangladesh; however, the available information is dispersed. In this study, previous findings on the contamination levels, distributions, risks, and sources of heavy metals in sediments and organisms were summarized for the first time to present the overall status of heavy metal pollution along coastal regions. Earlier research found that the concentrations of various heavy metals (HMs), particularly Co, Cd, Pb, Cu, Cr, Mn, Fe, and Ni in water, sediment, and fish in most coastal locations, were above their permissible limits. High concentrations of HMs were observed in sediments and water, like Cr of 55 mg/kg and 86.93 mg/l in the ship-breaking areas and Karnaphuli River, respectively, in coastal regions of Bangladesh. Heavy metals severely contaminated the Karnaphuli River estuary and ship-breaking area on the Sitakundu coast, where sediments were the ultimate sink of high concentrations of metals. Sedentary or bottom-dwelling organisms like gastropods and shrimp had higher levels of heavy metals than other organisms. As a result, the modified PRISMA review method was used to look at the critical research gap about heavy metal pollution in Bangladesh's coastal areas by analyzing the current research trends and bottlenecks.

Distribution and Bioaccumulation of Essential and Toxic Metals in Tissues of Thaila (Catla catla) from a Natural Lake, Pakistan and Its Possible Health Impact on Consumers

Although fish are often recommended as a component of a healthy diet, the environmental accumulation of heavy metals in many fish species has been of considerable concern for those weighing the nutritional health benefits against adverse toxic outcome of excess intake of toxic metals. This study aimed to determine the concentration of essential and toxic metals in the tissues of Catla catla in Mangla Lake and to assess the possible risk to the consumers. Fifty samples of Catla catla were collected from Mangla Lake, Mirpur, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan and analyzed for eighteen metals including essential and trace metals. The measured range concentrations (µg/g, wet weight) in muscle tissues, in decreasing order, were: K (955–1632), Ca (550–2081), Na (449–896), Mg (129–312), Zn (61.2–215), Fe (11.6–26.8), Sr (2.60–9.27), Pb (1.72–7.81), Se (1.55–3.55), Co (0.12–4.08), Mn (1.04–4.33), Ni (0.69–3.06), Cu (0.88–2.78), Cr (0.45–1.88), As (0.67–1.58), Cd (0.28–0.56), Hg (0.17–0.57) and Li (0.12–0.38). The metal concentrations found in this study were comparatively higher than those reported in literature. A majority of the metals exhibited higher accumulation in gills compared with those in scales and muscles. Mean levels of Pb, As, Co, Mn, Cd, Cr and Zn in Catla catla muscle were found to be exceeding the international permissible limits for the safe human consumption. The condition factor (K), as an indicator of fish health status, indicated that Catla catla of Mangla Lake are in good health condition. The metal pollution index (MPI) of gills (27.9), scales (12.5) and muscle (7.57) indicated low contamination. Moreover, human health risk was evaluated using estimated weekly intake (EWI) and daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), hazard index (HI) and target cancer risk (TCR). Estimated weekly and daily intake values for As, Cd, Cr, Hg, Ni and Pb were higher than provisional permissible tolerable weekly intake and permissible tolerable daily intake while THQ for As, Cd, Cr, Hg, Pb, Se and Zn was higher than 1. The THQ for As, Hg and Pb was several folds higher than 1, indicative of lifetime non-carcinogenic health risks to the consumers. The hazard index indicated cumulative risk, which greatly increased with increasing fish consumption. Target cancer risk indicated that the people eating the Catla catla from Mangla Lake were exposed to As, Cd, Cr, Ni and Pb with a significant lifetime carcinogenic risk. In summary, consumption of Catla catla from this lake was found to be associated with an increased lifetime risk to the general health of the consumers.

Trace elements in seabass, farmed by Turkey, and health risks to the main consumers: Turkish and Dutch populations

Turkey ranked first in sea bass farming in Europe, and almost all extra-EU seabass come from this country. The share of Turkish sea bass in the fish consumption of Europeans has increased significantly, and assessment of potential health risks of trace metals via sea bass, cultured by Turkey, became important. The Netherlands is the main buyer of the Turkish sea bass. Therefore, potential health risks were determined for Turkish and Dutch consumers. In the study, the concentrations of lead (Pb) and mercury (Hg) were below the limits, but the level of cadmium (Cd) was above the guidelines, in spring and winter. Dietary intake and potential health risk were found higher for the Dutch consumer, but all target hazard quotients (THQs) and total THQ (TTHQ) values were well below 1, showing no significant health risk due to the consumption of sea bass, cultured and exported by Turkey. It was determined that these sea basses can be safely consumed in quite high amounts, such as at least 31 meals a month. Se/Hg molar ratios were all above 1 and selenium health benefit values (Se-HBVs) were positive, indicating that selenium (Se) had a protective effect on Hg toxicity and positive health effects. Considering the average annual intake in Turkey and Netherlands, the consumption of sea bass, cultured by Turkey, is safe. Since the risk levels of communities may differ due to their eating habits, it is important to determine the public health impacts of the international fish trade.

Oceanic karma? Eco-ethical gaps in African EEE metal cycle may hit back through seafood contamination

The increasing global demand for electric and electronic equipment (EEE) such as smartphones, tablets and electric car batteries has resulted in an increase in heavy metal releases to the environment at different steps during its manufacture (e.g. mining, extraction, production and e-waste). Some critical raw materials (CRMs) that supply the worldwide demand of technology are mainly sourced from Africa, but their resulting heavy metal pollution can reach citizens from other regions of the world through seafood caught in African waters, which would act as a vector. In this study, we review heavy metal contents in African fish and, as proof of concept, we analyse heavy metal content in three tuna species (Thunnus alalunga, T. albacares and T. obesus) caught in different regions inside the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreements (SFPAs) by Spanish fleets and commercialised in Spain. Thunnus alalunga and T. albacares from African waters had higher concentrations of heavy metals (especially Hg but also As and Pb) in muscle than samples of the same species caught in other waters. Metal profiles in tunas from African waters were significantly correlated with those of continental and coastal fish from nearby areas impacted by mines and e-waste, as found in the literature review. Based on these results we identify research priorities that should be addressed in order to improve the social and environmental sustainability of EEE metal manufacture in Africa.

Contamination of Fishery Products with Mercury, Cadmium, and Lead in Tunisia: Level's Estimation and Human Health Risk Assessment

The levels of metallic trace elements were determined in fishery products sampled from Tunisian fishing ports. Mean concentrations were 0.20 ± 0.01, 0.05 ± 0.01, and 0.10 ± 0.01 mg/kg in fish flesh for Hg, Cd, and Pb, respectively. The mean concentrations of these elements were below regulatory thresholds; however, we also detected some specimens with higher levels. The mercury level showed a significant difference between fish categories, region, and year of sampling (p < 0.05). Samples from the center sites had the highest levels of Pb (0.17 ± 0.03 mg/kg; range 0.10; 0.22 mg/kg). Temporal analysis of Pb showed a significant difference between sampling year (p < 0.05). In addition, distribution among fish categories was statistically significant (p = 0.046). The rates of samples exceeding limits of Hg, Cd, and Pb were 5.3, 2.6, and 0.4%, respectively. Through the above results, the maximum weekly and monthly intakes for fish flesh consumption could not exceed the set limits. These data were important to inform consumers about fish content and the risk generated by some of these species.

Development of an easy portable procedure for on-site determination of mercury and methylmercury

A portable measurement and speciation procedure for inorganic mercury (Hg_IN) and methylmercury (CH₃Hg) was developed. A portable sample pretreatment was optimized to determine total mercury content. A new home-made sorbent (CYXAD, CHYPOS 101 modified Amberlite XAD), was prepared to separate Hg_IN and CH₃Hg. Mercury species were determined using square wave anodic stripping voltammetry (SW-ASV) with a solid gold electrode (SGE) and using a portable potentiostat. A certified reference material, five freeze-dried samples and three fresh samples were analysed with conventional voltammetric analyzer, after dissolution of the samples in microwave oven, and with a portable potentiostat after the mild eating procedure. The results obtained by SW-ASV were compared with those obtained using Direct Mercury Analyser (DMA). The quantification with the portable method is comparable to that obtained with the DMA. Retention tests showed the selectivity of CYXAD for Hg_IN, its stability and the possibility to re-use the same aliquot of resin.

Low mercury, cadmium and lead concentrations in tuna products from the eastern Pacific

Tuna species: Skipjack (Katsuwonus pelamis), yellowfin (Thunnus albacares) and bigeye (Thunnus obesus) are mainly processed into canned products (loins, solid pack, flakes) either in water or oil, and pre-cooked frozen loins. The National Institute of Fisheries of Ecuador (ISO/IEC 17025 certified), which is the official control laboratory, samples and analyses production batches of companies exporting to the European Union in order to ensure the quality control of Ecuadorean tuna product. From 2009 to 2016, 2572 samples have been analysed (by standard methods) for mercury, cadmium, and lead. The averages were 0.24 ± 0.14; 0.03 ± 0.03 and 0.05 ± 0.05 mg kg-1 (wet weight) respectively; which are well below the norms; i.e., total mercury: 1 mg kg-1; Lead: 0.3 mg kg-1 and Cadmium: 0.1 mg kg-1 according to the EU maximum limits. Over time mercury levels in the sample seemed to decrease but for cadmium and lead no clear pattern was observed. Additionally; samples of tuna can products taken at random from local vendor stores gave concentrations of: Mercury: 0.043 ± 0.004 mg kg-1; Cadmium: 0.012 ± 0.002 mg kg-1; Lead: below detection limit (0.01 mg kg-1). There were a few cases (15 out of 2572: 0.58%) of samples with readings near or just over-limit concentrations; of these, 12 corresponded to Cd, two to Pb and one to Hg. Some of them can be considered statistical outliers as well as cross contamination during analytical procedures. Raw tuna samples have given similar or lower concentrations. No significant statistical correlation was found between Hg, Cd and Pb values, this would suggest that the bioaccumulation of each metal is independent of each other. Literature reports that surface dissolved Hg, Cd, and Pb in the eastern Pacific are in the range of 2-18 ng kg-1. Assuming suggested bioaccumulation of 2-6 times, the end concentration in the tuna would be 0.012-0.042; 0.036-0.108 and 0.010-0.027 μg kg-1 of Hg, Cd, and Pb respectively, that would be one order (or more) below the safe consumption limit. Most, if not all the tuna processed in Ecuador is captured in the eastern Pacific and within its EEZ. Ecuadorian canned tuna complies with stringent standards for presence of these metals; therefore, it can be considered safe to be consumed from the point of view of these metal concentrations. However, further studies should assess metal concentrations exclusively from Ecuadorian tuna captured close to coastal and insular areas.

Heavy metals in aquatic products and the health risk assessment to population in China

In this paper, a total of 62,712 aquatic product samples were collected from 32 provinces of China during 2015-2017. By analyzing the spatial distributions and non-parametric tests of five heavy metals (lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), and arsenic (As)) in four aquatic product (fish (n = 44,353), shrimp (n = 8453), crab (n = 5367), and shellfish (n = 4539)), it was found that the concentrations of the five heavy metals in the same aquatic product are significantly different in different regions. Furthermore, we calculated daily estimated intake (EDI) of each of the five heavy metals and assessed non-cancer risk and cancer risk using target hazard quotient (THQ) and target cancer risk (TR), respectively. The results showed that for mean exposure levels, the THQ values in four aquatic products were all below one, meaning that there was no non-carcinogenic risk. For high exposure levels, the hazard index (HI) value exceeded one in fish in North China, which means the potential non-carcinogenic risk should not be ignored. As for cadmium, most of the TR values in crab and shellfish exceed 1 × 10^-4 in North China, East China, and South China. For chromium, except for Northeast China, the TR values in fish in other regions exceed 1 × 10^-4; it indicated that the cancer risk caused by cadmium or chromium should not be ignored.

Evaluation of heavy metals and radionuclides in fish and seafood products

Despite the existence of a legislation regarding food contaminants, food safety control in Serbia is a matter of great concern. This study investigates the radioactivity levels and heavy metal concentrations in fish and seafood commercially available in Serbian markets. Domestic fish species (caught in the Danube River) and fishery products imported from Europe, Asia and America were analyzed. The content of natural radionuclides and ¹³⁷Cs were investigated by gamma spectrometry. Activity concentration of ⁴⁰ K was measured in the range of 44-165 Bq kg^-1; low levels of ¹³⁷Cs were detected in two samples (2.8 and 3.0 Bq kg^-1), while concentrations of ²²⁶Ra and ²³²Th were below minimal detectable values. Concentrations of heavy metals (Cd, Hg and Pb) were determined using ICP-OES method. Cd concentration ranged from 0.01 to 0.81 mg kg^-1 in sea fish and from 0.01 to 0.03 mg kg^-1 in freshwater fish. Hg concentrations were in the range of 0.01-1.47 mg kg^-1; the highest value was measured in the predator fish - shark. The highest level of Pb (6.56 mg kg^-1) was detected in a blue sea fish (Atlantic mackerel). The health risks associated with the intake of heavy metals and radionuclides via fish consumption were evaluated. The results indicate that fish and seafood consumption do not pose a significant health concern in the case of the usual consumption rate which is typical for the population of Serbia. However, a highly frequent consumption of fishery products can have adverse health effects, especially due to Hg and Pb contamination.

Bioaccumulation and heavy metal concentration in tissues of some commercial fishes from the Meghna River Estuary in Bangladesh and human health implications

Despite the beneficial aspect of aquatic food's consumption, bioaccumulation of toxic metals in fish can enhance the health risk for the consumers. Heavy metals were measured from editable tissues of some commercial fish species like Latis calcarifer, Silonia silondia, Clupisoma garua, Planiliza subviridis, Otolithoides pama, Tenulosa ilisa, Rhinomugil corsula, and Aila coila in the Meghna river estuary in Noakhali district. Heavy metals such as As, Pb, Cd, Cu, and Cr were detected by ICP-MS, which were significantly different (p ≤ 0.01), and the hierarchy of all mean concentrations were: Cu (5.14 mg/kg) > Pb (3.79 mg/kg) > As (1.08 mg/kg) > Cr (0.78 mg/kg) > Cd (0.12 mg/kg). The mean concentration of Cu (6.62 mg/kg) imparted to the maximum level in L. calcarifer, which slightly exceeded the Bangladesh food safety guideline. The mean BAFs of the contaminants were found as: Pb (1042.29) > Cr (1036.47) > As (934.84) > Cd (832.77) > Cu (772). Further, L. calcarifer, S. silondia, C. garua, and P. subviridis showed the bioaccumulative status. To assess the health risk effects, estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ) and carcinogenic risk (CR) were conducted. THQs for both adult and children consumers were <1, indicating that, consumers would not experience the non-carcinogenic health effects. Although children were more susceptible than adults, CR for all the consumers was found in the acceptable range (10^-6 to 10^-4).

Analysis and risk assessment of arsenic, cadmium and lead in two fish species (Sardina pilchardus and Xiphias gladius) from Algerian coastal water

In this study, the levels of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) have been determined in the flesh of two species of fish, sardine (Sardina pilchardus) and swordfish (Xiphias gladius) fished in the Algerian coast. Quantification of As, Cd and Pb was carried out using an ICP-MS method and the results were compared with the thresholds set by national and international regulatory bodies. In a further step, the risk to consumers was assessed using estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ) and hazard index (HI).The average concentration of As and Pb was higher in sardine (1.82; 0.10 mg kg^-1 w.w., respectively), than in swordfish (1.10 mg kg^-1 w.w.; not determined), whereas the concentration recorded for Cd was the same for both species (0.01 mg kg^-1 w.w.). These concentrations are below maximum limits set in regulations. The THQs and HI were widely below 1. The consumption of these fish does not pose risk to the consumers.

Lead and cadmium in foods/drinking water from Slovenian market/taps: Estimation of overall chronic dietary exposure and health risks

Approximately 3000 food samples from the Slovenian market and 2500 drinking (tap) water samples in the period 2011 - 2016 were evaluated for the presence of toxic elements lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) and the overall chronic dietary exposure was assessed for each element. The highest mean concentrations were found for Pb in products for special nutritional use - dietary supplements (0.383 mg/kg) and for Cd in fish and seafood (0.117 mg/kg). The consumption data were obtained from the national study of the household budget and from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) summary statistics. Chronic dietary exposure was estimated deterministically. The average Pb and Cd intakes from food and drinking (tap) water ranged for children from 0.90 to 1.021 µg/kg bw/day and 4.65 to 5.65 µg/kg bw/week, respectively, and for adults, including adolescents, from 0.40 to 0.53 µg/kg bw/day and 1.98 to 2.82 µg/kg bw/week, respectively. The high consumption of cereal-based foods and vegetables contributed most to overall Pb and Cd intake in the majority of the age groups. The exposure to Pb was generally lower and that to Cd was higher compared to the average EU values. The most exposed were children, as the health-based guidance values were exceeded for both elements, which indicates a health concern. An important contribution to Cd exposure can be attributed to grains and potatoes grown in Slovenia, where the soil contains more Cd than that in other EU countries. Further efforts to reduce Pb and Cd intake are required to minimize potential health risks.

Mercury and cadmium distribution in yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) from two fishing grounds in the Indian Ocean near Sri Lanka

Mercury (Hg) and cadmium (Cd) are contaminants of great environmental concern due to their natural and anthropogenic origin, their ability of bioaccumulate through the food chain and their harmful effects on human health. In this study, the Hg and Cd accumulation in the muscle of 65 yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) collected from two different catching sites of the Indian Ocean near Sri Lanka were evaluated. The samples were mineralized using microwave accelerated digestion, and the metals were detected by atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). The metal levels were not significantly different between the two sites (p > 0.05), and the average Hg and Cd concentrations were 0.48 ± 0.35 mg/kg and 0.017 ± 0.024 mg/kg, (wet weight basis) respectively. Only 6 (9.2%) and 2 samples (3.1%) exceeded the European Commission limits for Hg (1 mg/kg) and Cd (0.01 mg/kg), respectively. A comparatively strong positive correlation was observed between the THg concentration and the weight of the fish. However, there was no clear relationship between the concentration and size for Cd. These findings provide an understanding of the Hg and Cd distribution in yellowfin tuna in two fishing grounds in the Indian Ocean near Sri Lanka.

An Efficient Quality Inspection of Food Products Using Neural Network Classification

Currently, there is a necessity for the expansion of precise, rapid, and intentional quality assurance with respect to the character of food and horticultural food items, because it is difficult to maintain and organize food products in an elevated quality and secure manner for the increasing population. In this article, we propose a procedure to resolve difficulties and to categorize food as either a broken or quality product. Therefore, the proposed process encompasses four segments, such as preprocessing, segmentation of broken division, feature extraction, and classification. At the first stage, the preprocessing method is used to remove all unnecessary noises. After that, modified region expansion-related segmentation is undertaken to segment the broken division of the food product. Then, feature extraction is used to remove the distinctive attributes of each food product to categorize their evaluation. Finally, the neural network classification procedure is used to examine the food quality. The proposed method is executed in the operational platform of MATLAB, and the consequences are examined by using obtainable methods.

Bioaccumulation of Cadmium and Lead in the Muscle Tissue of <i>Mullus barbatus</i> in Skikda and Jijel Bays Eastern Algeria

The bays of Skikda and Jijel present an ecosystem of great biological diversity and a significant economic interest (fishing and trading ports, industrial zones and tourism). They are threatened by the inputs of industrial effluents that are loaded with different substances, especially heavy metals. These pollutants have the distinction of being toxic and non-biodegradable, they accumulate in the different levels of the food chain which represents a danger for human health. The present work aimed to evaluate the impact of metal pollution in both bays via the study of the bioaccumulation of heavy metals namely, cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) in red mulletMullusbarbatusLinnaeus, 1758. Forty two (42) fish samples were obtained from 4 sites, 2 from bays of Skikda and 2 from bays of Jijel. After preparation, lyophilisation and mineralisation, samples were analysed by Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) for detection of Cd and Pb concentrations in µg/g of dry weights. Lead has reached the values of 141.666±5.238 and 89±3.464 µg/g in Skikda sites and 20±1.527 and 10±0.577 µg/g in Jijel sites, while Cd has reached 0.76±0.023 and 0.3±0.011 µg/g in Skikda, with lowest values in Jijel 0.116±0.008 and 0.1±0.005 µg/g. The highest levels were recorded in the areas that are subject to anthropogenic pollution, namely the port areas and the oil industry (Skikda bays). While the low concentrations were found in less polluted areas like Jijel bays. The results obtained in this study are alarming and reflect significant level of pollution especially in the bays of Skikda. Preventive and remedial measures and awareness raising are needed.

Na+ , K+ -ATPase activity in children with autism spectrum disorder: Searching for the reason(s) of its decrease in blood cells

Na⁺, K⁺‐ATPase (NKA) activity, which establishes the sodium and potassium gradient across the cell membrane and is instrumental in the propagation of the nerve impulses, is altered in a number of neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders, including autism spectrum disorders (ASD). In the present work, we examined a wide range of biochemical and cellular parameters in the attempt to understand the reason(s) for the severe decrease in NKA activity in erythrocytes of ASD children that we reported previously. NKA activity in leukocytes was found to be decreased independently from alteration in plasma membrane fluidity. The different subunits were evaluated for gene expression in leukocytes and for protein expression in erythrocytes: small differences in gene expression between ASD and typically developing children were not apparently paralleled by differences in protein expression. Moreover, no gross difference in erythrocyte plasma membrane oxidative modifications was detectable, although oxidative stress in blood samples from ASD children was confirmed by increased expression of NRF2 mRNA. Interestingly, gene expression of some NKA subunits correlated with clinical features. Excess inhibitory metals or ouabain‐like activities, which might account for NKA activity decrease, were ruled out. Plasma membrane cholesterol, but not phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidlserine, was slighty decreased in erythrocytes from ASD children. Although no compelling results were obtained, our data suggest that alteration in the erytrocyte lipid moiety or subtle oxidative modifications in NKA structure are likely candidates for the observed decrease in NKA activity. These findings are discussed in the light of the relevance of NKA in ASD. Autism Res2018, 11: 1388–1403. © 2018 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

The activity of the cell membrane enzyme NKA, which is instrumental in the propagation of the nerve impulses, is severely decreased in erythrocytes from ASD children and in other brain disorders, yet no explanation has been provided for this observation. We strived to find a biological/biochemical cause of such alteration, but most queries went unsolved because of the complexity of NKA regulation. As NKA activity is altered in many brain disorders, we stress the relevance of studies aimed at understanding its regulation in ASD.

Heavy metal contamination and health risk assessment in three commercial fish species in the Persian Gulf

Five heavy metals/metalloids and related potential health risks were investigated in three commercially important fish species (Anodontostoma chacunda, Belangerii, and Cynoglossurs arel) in Musa Estuary and Mahshahr Harbour of the Persian Gulf. A total of 116 fish samples were collected, and their liver and muscle organs were separately analyzed using ICP-MS. Results revealed that studied metals concentrations (with some exceptions) varied among sampling stations, fish species and their organs. Human health risk is evaluated using different indices. The results indicated that arsenic and mercury are the most hazardous elements. Estimated daily intake (EDI) for the metals exceeded the provisional tolerable daily intake (PTDI) for all studied fish species. Also, target risk (TR) of arsenic indicated that consumption over a long period of time may result in a carcinogenic effect. The results are expected to create awareness among the public on the safety of consuming food products grown in particular areas.

Total mercury content in commercial swordfish (Xiphias gladius) from different FAO fishing areas

Mercury (Hg) is a global pollutant that affect human and ecosystem health. It is transferred through trophic level and bio magnification in the food chain. In this study, total Hg was measured in the muscular tissue of samples of swordfish (Xiphias gladius) from different FAO fishing areas and imported in Italy between 2014 and 2017. Total mercury concentrations of muscular tissues were determined using cold vapour atomic absorption spectrometry. In order to assess the health risk associated with human consumption of this fish, the Hg intake values were calculated and compared with those of provisional tolerable daily intake (PTDI) (0.57 μg/kg b.w.) as fixed by the Food and Agriculture Organization/World Health Organization (FAO/WHO). The estimated PTDI (provisional tolerable daily intake) were lower for adults (0.40 μg/kg b.w./day) but not for children (0.97 μg/kg b.w./day), and therefore is considered to pose an alert for children with the present fish consumption volume.

Trace elements concentrations in squids consumed in Shandong Province China and their associated risks to the human health

Determination of ten metal levels in 160 squid samples caught from offshore and the oceanic fishing locations by ICP-MS was made. The mean metal concentration in the squid muscles decreasing in the order of: Zn, Fe, Cu, As, Mn, Se, Cd, Pb, Cr and Ni. Metal concentrations in the squids were assessed for human uses according to provisional tolerable weekly intake (PTWI) and provisional tolerable daily intake (PTDI)·The estimated hazard quotients for the individual metals from squids were found in accordance to the following sequence: As > Cd > Cu > Se > Cr > Zn > Pb > Fe > Mn > Ni, with the greatest hazard upon human health coming primarily from As (1.34 < HQ < 1.73 in the Loliginidae from two offshore sampling sites and the Humboldt squid from the eastern Pacific Ocean). In regards to the heavy metal pollution of the coastal sea areas, the squids captured from offshore sites might pose a higher potential health risk to consumers compared to those from the ocean.

Recent Studies on the Speciation and Determination of Mercury in Different Environmental Matrices Using Various Analytical Techniques

This paper reviews the current research on the speciation and determination of mercury by various analytical techniques, including the atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS), voltammetry, inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), ICP-mass spectrometry (MS), atomic fluorescence spectrometry (AFS), spectrophotometry, spectrofluorometry, and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Approximately 96 research papers on the speciation and determination of mercury by various analytical instruments published in international journals since 2015 were reviewed. All analytical parameters, including the limits of detection, linearity range, quality assurance and control, applicability, and interfering ions, evaluated in the reviewed articles were tabulated. In this review, we found a lack of information in speciation studies of mercury in recent years. Another important conclusion from this review was that there were few studies regarding the concentration of mercury in the atmosphere.

Content of cadmium and lead in raw, fried and baked commercial frozen fishery products consumed in Poland

BACKGROUND

The study aimed to verify whether the consumption of frozen fishery products was safe in terms of Cd and Pb content. The study material was 31 frozen fishery products (15 breaded products and 16 fillets). Immediately before the analyses the products were subject to culinary treatment according to the recommendations of the producer: fried in colza oil or baked in a gas oven. The level of Cd and Pb was determined using the GF AAS method.

RESULTS

The analysed frozen products contained on average 14.0 µg Cd kg^-1 and 18.5 µg Pb kg^-1 . Compared to raw products, baked fish contained 56% more Cd and 72% more Pb, whereas fried fish contained 16% more Cd and 15% more Pb. Compared to fried products, baked fish contained 34% more Cd and 49% more Pb.

CONCLUSION

The content of Cd and Pb in the products did not exceed the acceptable standard. However, it cannot be clearly stated which method of culinary treatment of frozen fishery products is the best with regard to the level of Cd and Pb in the final products. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.