Nutrients and contaminants in tissues of five fish species obtained from Shanghai markets: Risk-benefit evaluation from human health perspectives

Impact of chronic fluoxetine exposure on zebrafish: From fatty acid profile to behavior

The consumption of antidepressants, such as fluoxetine, has increased over the years and, as a result, they are increasingly found in aquatic systems. Given the increasing use of zebrafish as an animal model in toxicological studies, this work proposed to evaluate the effects of chronic exposure, for 21 days, to fluoxetine at environmentally relevant concentrations (1, 10, 100, and 1000 ng/L). The behavioral tests performed did not reveal significant effects of fluoxetine. However, oxidative stress and changes in energy metabolism were detected after exposure to the highest concentrations of fluoxetine tested, namely a decrease in glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity (decrease of ca. 31%), increase in catalase (CAT) activity (increase of ca. 71%), and decrease in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity (decrease of ca. 53%). Analysis of the fatty acid profile (FA) revealed a decrease in the omega-3 FA, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), C22:6 (decrease in relative abundance between 6% and 8% for both the head and body), an increase in omega-6 FA, linoleic acid (LA), C18:2, (increased relative abundance between 8% and 11% in the head and between 5% and 9% in the body), which may suggest changes in the inflammatory state of these organisms. The integrated analysis adopted proved to be useful in detecting subindividual effects of fluoxetine and modes of action in fish.

Fatty acids and organohalogen contaminants in seafood from the Pearl River Estuary, China: Risk-benefit analyses of seafood consumption

Seafood has long been considered a healthy food choice, but it is also an exposure source of contaminants that may bring potential health risks to humans. Here, 80 organohalogen contaminants (OHCs) and 36 fatty acids (FAs) were analyzed in 22 (n = 211) and 19 fishery species (n = 176) from the eastern- and western Pearl River Estuary (PRE), respectively, for risk-benefit analysis. The average concentrations of total FAs in seafood from the eastern- and western PRE were 26.0 ± 2.14 and 21.3 ± 1.66 mg g-1 wet weight, respectively. Seafood from the eastern PRE exhibited higher levels of OHCs than those from the western PRE, highlighting the spatial heterogeneity of OHC contamination within the PRE. Species occupying higher trophic levels (TLs) typically demonstrated higher levels of OHC accumulation, indicating the biomagnification potential of these contaminants in the PRE ecosystem. Significant negative correlations were observed between TLs and the proportions of monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids, presumably attributed to the ability of fish to synthesize these FAs decreases with increasing TLs. Our benefit-risk quotient (BRQ) analyses revealed that, as far as OHCs are concerned, all seafood species had a BRQ∑OHCs value <1, except for one-spot snapper and daggertooth pike conger, which had BRQ values of 1.03 and 1.14, respectively. The findings indicate that most marine species here analyzed may not pose significant health risks to consumers as a result of OHC exposure. However, considering that many other pollutants and nutrients are not analyzed here, the results of our risk assessments should be treated as preliminary, not final. Future data collection is essential to enhance the comprehensiveness of this type of analysis.

Multidimensional trace metals and nutritional niche differ between sexually immature and mature common dolphins (Delphinus delphis)

There is a need to understand the links between metals and nutrition for apex marine predators, which may be subject to different ecotoxicological effects at different life stages. We combined stomach content analyses (SCA), prey composition analysis (PCA), the Multidimensional Niche Framework (MNNF) with Bayesian multivariate ellipses, trace metal analysis and nicheROVER to investigate nutrition and trace metals across sex, age, and sexual maturity status in common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) from New Zealand. A broader prey composition niche breadth (SEAc) was estimated for immature compared to mature conspecifics, showing a higher degree of prey and nutrient generalism driven by protein (P) intake. Cd and Zn niche similarities suggests these metals were incorporated through similar prey in both immature and mature dolphins, whereas Hg and Se niche divergence indicates uptake occurred via different prey. Our multidisciplinary assessment demonstrated how nutrients and metal interactions differ in common dolphins depending upon sexual maturity. This approach has relevance when considering how marine pollution, environmental fluctuations and climate change may affect nutritional and trace metal interactions during different reproductive stages within marine predators.

Carassius auratus as a bioindicator of the health status of Lake Trasimeno and risk assessment for consumers

Fish are good bio-indicators of the health status of the aquatic environment and can be used as biomarkers to assess the aquatic behavior of environmental pollutants, the exposure of aquatic organisms, and the health risk for consumers. Goldfish are a significant bioindicator in the Lake Trasimeno aquatic system (Umbria, Italy). This study aimed to characterize the health status and the chemical and biotic contamination of Lake Trasimeno to define its anthropogenic and natural pressures and the risk associated with consuming its fishery products. 114 determinations were performed on Carassius auratus samples from 2018 to 2020, and the occurrence of brominated flame retardants, non-dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls, heavy metals, and microplastics was analytically investigated. Dietary exposure assessment, risk characterization, and benefit-risk evaluation were performed for schoolchildren from 3 to 10 years old. Flame-retardants registered high levels of non-detects (99% for polybrominated diphenyl ether and 76% for hexabromocyclododecanes), while polychlorinated biphenyls were found in all samples with a maximum level of 56.3 ng/g. Traces of at least one heavy metal were found in all samples, though always below the regulatory limit. Microplastics were found with a 75% frequency of fish ingesting at least one particle. Dietary exposure and risk characterization reveal negligible contributions to the reference values of all contaminants, except for mercury, which reached up to 25% of admissible daily intake. The benefit- risk assessment highlighted that the benefits of freshwater fish intake outweigh the associated risks. The examination of goldfish as indicator fish reveals the quality of Lake Trasimeno's aquatic environment and the safety of its products.

Determinants affecting the blood mercury levels of preschool children in Shanghai, China: A cross-sectional study

Infants and children are vulnerable to mercury (Hg)-induced toxicity, which has detrimental effects on their neurological development. This study measured blood Hg levels (BMLs) and identified potential factors influencing BMLs, including demographic and socioeconomic factors, lifestyle, and daily dietary habits, among 0 to 7-year-old children in Shanghai. Our study recruited 1474 participants, comprising 784 boys and 690 girls. Basic demographic and lifestyle information were obtained and blood Hg were analyzed using the Direct Mercury Analyzer 80. The blood Hg concentrations of children in Shanghai ranged from 0.01 to 17.20 μg/L, with a median concentration of 1.34 μg/L. Older age, higher familial socioeconomic status, higher residential floors, and a higher frequency of consuming aquatic products, rice, vegetables, and formula milk were identified as risk factors. Other potential influencing factors including the mother's reproductive history (gravidity and parity), smoking (passive smoking), supplementation of fish oil and calcium need to be further investigated. These findings can be useful in establishing appropriate interventions to prevent children's high blood Hg concentrations in Shanghai and other similar metropolitan cities.

Simultaneous determination of multiple perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances in aquatic products by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry with automated solid-phase extraction

Diet is an important route of human exposure to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), and aquatic products are the main dietary source of PFASs. This study aimed to establish a method for the analysis of 52 PFASs in typical aquatic products, such as crucian carp, large yellow croaker, shrimp, and clam, by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) after automated solid phase extraction (SPE). After optimization of the conditions of SPE, the recovery and precision of the method is within an acceptable range. The intra-day and inter-day average recoveries of spiked samples ranged from 66.5% to 122.3% and 64.5%-128.0% for crucian carp, large yellow croaker, shrimp, and clam, with intra-day and inter-day relative standard deviation (RSD) of 0.78%-11.4%, and 2.54%-24.2%. The ranges of method detection limits (MDLs) and quantification limits (MQLs) of PFASs were 0.003-0.60 ng/g and 0.005-2.0 ng/g, respectively. The accuracy of the method was also verified by standard reference material (SRM), and the measured values of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) were in the allowable range. The method was applied to analyze aquatic products from the local supermarket. The concentrations of ∑PFASs ranged from 13.9 ng/g ww to 75.5 ng/g ww. PFOS was the dominant pollutant, accounting for 79.6% of ∑PFASs. The branch-chain isomers, perfluoro-3-methylheptane sulfonate (P3MHpS) and perfluoro-6-methylheptane sulfonate (P6MHpS) accounted for one-quarter of PFOS. Long-chain perfluoro carboxylic acids (PFCAs) were also detected in most samples. The estimated daily intake of PFOS was over the recommended tolerable intake by several organizations such as the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), the New Jersey Drinking Water Quality Institute (NJDWQI), and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). PFOS would have posed health risks to consumers through dietary exposure.

Occurrence, distribution, and risk assessment of halogenated organic pollutants (HOPs) in marine fish muscle: The case study of Vietnam

Halogenated organic pollutants (HOPs), including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), and chlorophenols (CPs), were identified in three marine fish species in Vietnam. Total PCBs, OCPs, and CPs concentrations ranged from 4.5 to 711.6 ng g^-1 lipid weight (lw), 69.9-2360 ng g^-1 lw, and 208.1-3941.2 ng g^-1 lw, respectively. CPs were the most frequently detected pollutants in the marine environment of Vietnam of the three HOPs studied, followed by OCPs and PCBs. There are significant differences in HOPs between three types of seafood in Vietnam, including yellowstripe scad, Indian mackerel, and silver pomfret in this study. Notably, the types and amounts of HOPs found in the fish were differently influenced by the economic and industrial activities of the sampled areas. Despite these findings, the consumption of HOP-contaminated fish from the study areas was found not to pose any significant health risks to Vietnam's coastal population.

Contaminant-induced oxidative stress underlies biochemical, molecular and fatty acid profile changes, in gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata L.)

Chemical contaminants such as heavy metals, polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and drugs, are constantly found in the marine environment determining the interest of the scientific community for their side effects on animal welfare, food safety and security. Few studies have analyzed the effects of mix of contaminants in fish, in terms of molecular and nutritional composition response, beside it is indispensable to think more and more on effect of contaminants along the food web system. In this study, Sparus aurata specimens were exposed for 15 days, by diet, to a mixture of carbamazepine (Cbz), polybrominated diphenyl ether-47 (PBDE-47) and cadmium chloride (CdCl₂), at two doses (0.375 μg g-1 D1; 37.5 μg g-1 D2) (T15). After, fish were fed with a control diet, without contaminants mix, for other 15 days (T30). The study explored the effect on oxidative stress in the liver, analyzing specific molecular markers and effects on quality, by fatty acid profile and lipid peroxidation. Molecular markers involved in ROS scavenging, such as superoxide dismutase (sod), catalase (cat) and glutathione peroxidase (gpx) were evaluated by gene expression; as markers of quality and lipid peroxidation, the fatty acids (FAs) profile and the level of malondyaldeide (MDA) were assessed. Sod and cat genes underwent to up-regulation after 15 days of diet containing contaminants and showed down-regulation after the next 2 weeks of detoxification (T30). At T15, the FAs profile showed an increase of the saturated fatty acids (SFA), and a decrease of the polyunsatured fatty acids (PUFA). The MDA levels increased over time, indicating an ongoing radical damage. These results suggest that the effects of the contaminants can be perceived not only at molecular but also at nutritional level and that the molecular and biochemical markers adopted could be differently used to monitor the health of aquatic organisms in the marine environment.

Health risk-benefit assessment of the commercial red mangrove crab: Implications for a cultural delicacy

Mangrove forests, provide vital food resources and are an endangered ecosystem worldwide due to pollution and habitat destruction. A risk-benefit assessment (RBA) was performed on the red mangrove crab (Ucides occidentalis) from the threatened Guayas mangroves in Ecuador. It was aimed to assess the combined potential adverse and beneficial health impact associated with crab consumption and define a recommended safe intake (SI) to improve the diet of the Ecuadoran population while ensuring safe food intake. Target hazard quotients (THQs), benefit quotients (Qs), and benefit-risk quotients (BRQs) were calculated based on the concentrations of the analyzed contaminants (121 pesticide residues, 11 metal(loid)s, antimicrobial drugs from 3 classes) and nutrients (fatty acids, amino acids, and essential nutrients). Except for inorganic arsenic (iAs), the THQ was below 100 for all investigated contaminants, suggesting that the average crab consumer is exposed to levels that do not impose negative non-carcinogenic or carcinogenic health effects in the long and/or short term. Concentrations of iAs (average AsIII: 25.64 and AsV: 6.28 μg/kg fw) were of the highest concern because of the potential to cause negative health effects on long-term consumption. Despite the thriving aquaculture in the Guayas estuary, concentrations of residues of the antimicrobial drugs oxytetracycline (OTC), florfenicol, and nitrofurans still were low. Based on the fact that different risk reference values exist, related to different safety levels, four SI values (0.002, 0.04, 4, and 18 crabs/day) were obtained. The strictest intake values indicate a concern for current consumption habits. In conclusion, the red mangrove crab contains various important nutrients and can be part of a balanced diet for the Ecuadorian population when consumed in limited portions. The present study emphasizes the importance of safeguarding the quality of the environment as a prerequisite for procuring nutritious and safe food.

Health risk of consuming Sphoeroides spp. from the Navachiste Lagoon complex due to its trace metals and organochlorine pesticides content

The Navachiste complex (NAV) is impacted by neighbored human activities and is located in the southwestern coastal zone of the Gulf of California. The study determines the trace metal (TM) and organochlorine pesticides (OCP) health risk content in the edible tissue of Sphoeroides spp. from NAV. The daily intakes (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), hazard index (HI), and carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks were calculated. Twenty OCP and seven TM were detected. Cd, Cu, Fe, Mn, Pb, and Zn were above MRLs. The γ‒Chlordane was the most frequent OCP. The highest average concentration was for α‒HCH, followed by γ‒chlordane. With the high ratios of γ‒HCH, p, p'‒ DDD and p, p'‒DDD, and the absence of p, p'‒ DDT, the higher ratios for dieldrin and endrin than for aldrin, α‒ chlordane, γ‒chlordane, heptachlor, and heptachlor epoxide indicates historical contamination. In contrast, the residual products of methoxychlor, endosulfan, and its isomers indicate endosulfan's recent use. The TM EDI, THQ > 1 (at 120 g day^-1), and the ILCR (> 1 × 10^-6) were above minimum levels, showing a high-risk potential for cancer development in the long term.

Chemical and biochemical responses to sub-lethal doses of mercury and cadmium in gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata)

Specimens of Sparus aurata were exposed to sub-lethal concentrations of Hg and Cd for 25 days and the levels of both metals were investigated in organs and tissues. Bioaccumulation of Hg decreased as follow: gills > kidney > liver > skin > muscle, while the order of Cd bioaccumulation was: liver > kidney > gills > skin > muscle. Immediately after exposure, both metals showed the highest bioaccumulation in gills and skin indicating that these organs are reliable targets for biomonitoring studies after short term exposure. Metals introduction caused a significant time-dependent concentrations increase in kidney and liver, while in the muscle a significant increase of Hg was recorded only at the end of the experimentation. The effects of exposure were also investigated, at biochemical level, in the liver, which represents the main target of xenobiotics biotransformation and metabolism in fish. Exposed fishes exhibited a reduction of total lipid level, a decrease of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), together with a MDA increase. This suggests a direct effect of contaminants on oxidative stress induction that, through the MDA increase, altered the membrane fatty acids composition decreasing the PUFA content. As it regards molecular markers related to oxidative stress and lipid metanolism, a significant increase of Nrf2, Hif-1α and Ampk and a decrease of Fas were observed after exposure to both metals, while an Nf-kB increase was recorded in specimens exposed to Hg, docuemnting a correlation with oxidative stress and consequent metabolism adaptation. Finally, these results suggest the possibility to adopt these biomarkers to explore fish metabolic responses to environmental pollution.

Persistent and toxic chemical pollutants in fish consumed by Asians in Chicago, United States

Consumption of seafood brings health benefits but may increase the ingestion of contaminants. Compared with other ethnic groups in the U.S., Asians consume seafood more frequently. However, there is little information about how culturally specific fish consumption contributes to exposure to toxicants. In this work, we surveyed fish consumption among Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese communities and purchased 103 seafood samples from local markets in Chicago. Each sample was analyzed for mercury (Hg) and 92 organic chemicals including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), and Dechlorane Plus and related compounds (DPs). The rank order of pollutant concentration in all samples was Hg ≫ Σ₆₆PCBs > Σ₁₇OCPs > Σ₈PBDEs > Σ₈DPs. Positive correlations were noted among most contaminant groups. Bluefish, pike and tuna steak had the highest mean Hg (>1 mg/kg). The mean Σ₆₆PCBs was highest in pike and bluefish (>100 ng/g) followed by pollock and mackerel (>40 ng/g). Overall, octopus, shrimp and tilapia were the least contaminated; while pike, bluefish, and pollock were the most contaminated. Omega-3 fatty acids were more strongly affiliated with the organic contaminants than mercury. A risk assessment identified seven types of fish that should have consumption limitations and six that should not be consumed. For these seafoods, consumption advice based on Hg levels would adequately protect health. In the survey participants, 17% of seafood mass consumed is from types of fish that should be limited to 1 or 2 meals/week, while 7% of the seafood mass consumed comes from types that should not be consumed at all. This work adds additional contaminants to the profile of health risks resulting from fish consumption among Asian Americans, which can be used in interventions aimed at conserving consumption of healthy fish while avoiding contaminants.

Fatty acid profile variations after exposure to textile industry effluents in Indian Major Carps

Indian major carps are the widely consumed fish species of Pakistan, being a cheap source of proteins and unsaturated fatty acids, they are good for cardiovascular health. Water pollution due to discharge of untreated industrial waste water into water bodies contaminates this precious source of nutrients. The present study therefore, was aimed to assess deterioration of fatty acid profile of three Indian major carp species due to different concentrations of industrial wastes. The water samples were collected from the river Chenab at the site where it receives industrial wastewater via Chakbandi drain. After exposure to 1.5%, 3.0%, and 4.5% dilutions of collected water in different aquaria it was observed that proportion of unsaturated fatty acids in selected fish species were decreased significantly as the intensity of the dose increased (P < 0.05). Conversely the level of saturated fatty acids increased with the increasing dose of treatment (P < 0.05). These findings suggest that untreated wastewater not only deteriorate the fatty acid profile of aquatic animals but also these toxic substances can reach human body through fish meat and pose further health hazards. Therefore, it is highly recommended that industrial effluents should be treated before they are dumped into water bodies.

Assessment of heavy metals in wild and farmed tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) on Lake Kariba, Zambia: implications for human and fish health

The aim of this study was to assess the levels of heavy metals in both wild and farmed tilapia on Lake Kariba in Zambia and to evaluate the impact of intensive fish farming on wild tilapia. Three sites for wild fish (2 distant and 1 proximal to fish farms) and two fish farms were selected. One hundred fish (52 from distant sites; 20 near fish farms; 28 farmed fish) were sampled and muscle tissues excised for analysis of heavy metals (Mg, Fe, Zn, Al, Cu, Se, Co, Mo, As, Cr, V, Ni, Hg, Pb, Li, Cd, and Ag) by acid (HNO₃) digestion and ICP-MS. All metals were found to be below the maximum limits (MLs) set by WHO/EU. Essential metals were higher in farmed tilapia, whereas non-essential metals were higher in wild tilapia. Significantly higher levels of essential metals were found in wild fish near the fish farms than those distant from the farms. Estimated weekly intake (EWI) for all metals were less than the provisional tolerable weekly intakes (PTWI). Target hazard quotients (THQ) and Hazard Indices (HI) were <1, indicating no health risks from a lifetime of fish consumption. Selenium Health Benefit Value (HBV_Se) was positive for all locations, indicating protective effects of selenium against mercury in fish. Total cancer risk (CR) due to As, Cr, Cd, Ni and Pb was less than 1 × 10^-4, indicating less than 1 in 10,000 carcinogenic risk from a lifetime consumption of tilapia from Lake Kariba. Hg levels (0.021 mg/kg) in wild tilapia at site 1 were higher than the Environmental quality standard (EQS = 0.020 mg/kg) set by EU, indicating possible risk of adverse effects to fish. Except for Hg, levels of metals in fish were safe for human consumption and had no adverse effects on fish.

Moderate Freshwater Fish Intake, but Not n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids, Is Associated with a Reduced Risk of Small for Gestational Age in a Prospective Cohort of Chinese Pregnant Women

BACKGROUND

Although previous studies have found that maternal fish intake is associated with fetal growth, the role of freshwater fish intake remains unknown.

OBJECTIVE

Our aim was to examine the relationships of freshwater fish and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) intake with the risk of small for gestational age (SGA) in Chinese pregnant women.

DESIGN

This was a prospective analysis of data from the Tongji Birth cohort in Wuhan, China, from 2018 to 2021.

PARTICIPANTS/SETTINGS

This study included 1,701 pregnant women who had completed a food frequency questionnaire dietary assessment during mid-pregnancy.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Intake of fish was assessed by a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Total intake of n-3 PUFAs was the sum of data collected from both dietary and supplemental sources of n-3 PUFAs. Birth information was extracted from medical records.

STATISTICAL ANALYSES

Multivariate logistic regression models were applied to estimate odds ratios and 95% CIs.

RESULTS

The median (interquartile range) intake of freshwater fish and total n-3 PUFAs was 12.1 (4.3 to 26.4) g/d and 68.2 (24.5 to 370.0) mg/d, respectively. Moderate intake of freshwater fish was associated with reduced risk of SGA. Compared with the lowest quintile (0-3.2 g/d), the multivariable-adjusted odds ratio for women in the fourth quintile of freshwater fish intake (17.9 to 30.0 g/d) was 0.50 (95% CI 0.25 to 0.96). We found a nonlinear association between freshwater fish intake and SGA risk (P_nonlinearity = .027). However, maternal n-3 PUFAs intake was not significantly associated with SGA risk, either from total intake or from dietary sources alone.

CONCLUSIONS

Moderate freshwater fish intake during pregnancy is associated with lower risk of SGA in a Chinese population. This finding provides supportive evidence for freshwater fish intake during pregnancy, particularly for the inland areas of developing countries.

Risk Characterization and Benefit-Risk Assessment of Brominated Flame Retardant in Commercially Exploited Freshwater Fishes and Crayfish of Lake Trasimeno, Italy

Among brominated flame retardants (BFRs), polybrominateddiphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and hexabromocyclododecanes (HBCDs) were the most widely used in past decades. BFRs not being chemically bonded to polymers means they can easily leach from the products into the environment and bioaccumulate. Humans are exposed to flame retardants mainly through food consumption, especially fish and fish products. In the present study, the occurrence of PBDEs and HBCDs in freshwater fishes and crayfish from Lake Trasimeno (Umbria region, central Italy) was assessed according to monitoring plans recommended by European competent authorities. The dietary exposure of the central Italian population to such molecules was calculated, and the risk characterization and the benefit–risk evaluation were also assessed. A total of 90 samples were analyzed by means of gas and liquid chromatography associated with triple quadrupole mass spectroscopy. A total of 51% of samples were found positive for at least one of the congeners; the most frequently found molecule was BDE-47. The data on dietary exposure ranged from 0.138 to 1.113 pg/kg body weight/day for ∑PBDE and from 0.805 to 0.868 pg/kg body weight/day for ∑HBCD. The data show no health risks for the central Italian population consuming freshwater fish products from Lake Trasimeno in relation to exposure to PBDE and HBCD.

Human health risk-benefit assessment of fish and other seafood: a scoping review

Fish and other seafood are important sources of nutrients, but they are also sources of chemical contaminants that may cause adverse health effects. This article aimed to identify existing risk-benefit assessments (RBA) of fish, shellfish, and other seafood, compare methodologies, discuss differences and commonalities in findings, and identify limitations and ways forward for future studies. We conducted a scoping review of the scientific literature of studies in all languages published from 2000 through April 2019. We identified 106 RBA of fish and other seafood across Europe, Asia, North America, Africa, and at the global level. Studies were heterogeneous in terms of types of fish and other seafood considered, beneficial and adverse compounds assessed, and overall methodology. Collected data showed that a diet consisting of a variety of lean and fatty fish and other seafood is recommended for the overall population and that women of childbearing age and children should limit the consumption of fish and other seafood types that have a high likelihood of contamination. Our review emphasizes the need for evidence-based, up-to-date, and harmonized approaches in RBA in general.

Heavy Metals Contamination in Shellfish: Benefit-Risk Evaluation in Central Italy

Seafood is a source of nutrients in human diet but also of environmental contaminants and its consumption could pose a risk to consumers' health. A survey regarding the exposure to cadmium, lead and mercury through the consumption of bivalve mollusks, gastropods and sea urchins collected on Italian coasts was carried out among central Italian population over a period of three years. A limited number of samples exceeds the threshold set by legislation (6 samples) and the average level of contamination was low in all the species considered. The contribution Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) was higher for cadmium (9.17%) than lead (1.44%) and mercury (0.20%). The benefit-risk evaluation suggests that the bivalve mollusks and sea urchins consumption (Benefit Risk Quotient < 1) could be increased without health detrimental effects.

Linking cadmium and mercury accumulation to nutritional intake in common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) from Patagonia, Argentina

Bioaccumulation of Hg and Cd from food is a complex ecological process that has been oversimplified in the past. Common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) provide a powerful model to biomonitor metal concentrations in marine environments worldwide. We combined proportions-based nutritional geometry with metal analysis, stomach content analysis and the proximate composition of prey, to yield novel insights into the accumulation of Hg and Cd. Our analysis showed an age-related accumulation trend for Cd and Hg in kidney and liver, with highest concentrations found at 18 years of age. When viewed through the lens of nutritional ecology, Argentine anchovy (58.1 Mass %) and South American long-finned squid (22.7 Mass %), provided most of the dietary intake of protein (P) and lipids (L) (P:L ratio = 2.6:1.0) and also represented the main source for Cd and Hg levels accumulated in their bodies. This study presents unprecedented evidence on metal accumulation in relation to age and nutritional intake in a marine predator.

Nutritional Value and Contaminant Risk Assessment of Some Commercially Important Fishes and Crawfish of Lake Trasimeno, Italy

The aim of our study was to describe the balance between health benefits and risks associated with the consumption of crawfish and nine fish species from lake Trasimeno. We thus determined both fatty acid profiles (particularly, eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) acids) and chemical pollutants (some polychlorinated biphenyls, pesticides, and heavy metals) in fish muscle tissues. The contents of all fatty acids varied significantly among species. Sand smelt, carp, and tench, which have a high fat content, contained considerable amounts of EPA and DHA; lean fish, like perch, pike, and largemouth bass, which have relatively high percentages of the predominant n-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, showed lower amounts of these fatty acids because of their low lipid contents. Some species contributed strongly to the Dietary Reference Intake (RDI) of EPA and DHA. The contribution of lean fish to the RDI of EPA and DHA was more limited. The concentrations of all contaminants in fish muscle tissues were lower than the regulatory limits, demonstrating the safety of the environmental conditions of the lake. The contribution to health-based reference values and benefit–risk quotients indicated that the health benefits of consumption of fish from lake Trasimeno outweigh the potential risks.

Fatty acids, polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans, and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls in paired muscle and skin from fish from the Bohai coast, China: Benefits and risks associated with fish consumption

Fish consumption benefits early cognitive development and cardiovascular health because of the n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in the fish, but toxic pollutants in fish, like dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (dl-PCBs) and polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs), may decrease or counteract these benefits. In this study, the fatty acids, dl-PCBs, and PCDD/Fs were analyzed in paired muscle and skin from 13 fish and one squid species from the Bohai coast, which have been influenced by serious dioxin pollution from the Bohai Rim Region. The total fatty acid concentrations in the muscle and skin were 2.6-87 and 3.6-156 mg/g wet weight (ww), respectively. The total polyunsaturated fatty acid concentrations were higher in skin than muscle for almost half of the species. The total PCDD/F and dl-PCB toxic equivalents in the muscle and skin were 0.055-0.68 and 0.0099-0.43 pg/g ww, respectively, and were up to five times higher in the muscle than in the skin for eight species. Few benefit-risk studies for fish consumption with and without skin have been performed, so benefit-risk quotients (BRQs) for eating only muscle, only skin, and eating both were calculated. To achieve the recommended 250 mg of EPA + DHA intake, eating only muscle, only skin, and eating both from seven species with BRQs < 1 would cause no significant risk. Removing skin before eating is not necessary for these species. Three fish species had BRQs < 1 for muscle only but BRQs > 1 for skin only. Removing skin before eating would be better for these species. The other four fish species had BRQs > 1 for eating only muscle, only skin, and eating both, indicating the potential risk caused by PCDD/F and dl-PCB. Amounts of the four fish species consumed should be decreased, and other sources of EPA and DHA should be selected.

Lipid accumulation, oxidative stress and immune-related molecules affected by tributyltin exposure in muscle tissues of rare minnow (Gobiocypris rarus)

Tributyltin (TBT) is reported to induce adipogenesis in fish, which might affect nutritional qualities and health status. Muscle tissues account for the majority of body mass, and have been described as a major site of fat deposition and an immunologically active organ. Therefore, the present study aims to evaluate whether chronic exposures of TBT, at environmental concentrations of 1, 10 and 100 ng/L, affects lipid accumulation, oxidative stress and immune status in muscle tissues of rare minnow (Gobiocypris rarus). After 60 d of exposure, TBT increased contents of total lipid, total cholesterol, triglyceride and fatty acids in muscle tissues. Interestingly, TBT exposure disrupted fatty acid composition and increased contents of unsaturated fatty acids (such as eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid) in muscle tissues, which might be a response to preserve membrane functions from TBT exposure. Meanwhile, the concentrations of hepatic fatty acid desaturase 2 (Δ6-desaturase) and stearoyl-CoA desaturase (Δ9-desaturase) were increased after TBT exposure, which might contribute the increase of unsaturated fatty acids. Furthermore, TBT increased muscle lipid peroxidation products, antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase), and the expression of immune-related molecules (tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin 1 beta and nuclear factor kappa B) in muscle tissues. The disruption of TBT on the lipid accumulation, oxidative stress and immune-toxic effects in muscle tissues of fish might reduce nutritional qualities, and affect growth and health status, which might pose a constant and serious threat to fish and result in economic loss in aquaculture.

PCBs and OCPs in fish along coastal fisheries in China: Distribution and health risk assessment

PCBs and OCPs were analyzed in fish (bass) taken along Chinese coastal fisheries. In the bass muscle, PCB, DDT and HCH concentrations were in the range of 1.02-2.2ng/g, 0.44-1.74 and 2.84-106.11ng/gww, respectively. Spatial distribution showed that the concentrations of target contaminants in bass from south fisheries were in general much lower than those from north fisheries in China. The ratios of OCP congeners suggested that technical DDT was not the main input and a recent usage of lindane or old technical HCH residuals could be the source of HCHs. The OCC concentrations in liver (127-442.43ng/gww) from selected samples were 8-12 and 10-14 times higher than those in gills and muscles, respectively. Based on the maximum allowable fish assumption rate (CRlim and CRmm), it could cause human health risk, by consuming bass samples taken from highly contaminated fisheries including QD and ST.

Low-level methylmercury exposure through rice ingestion in a cohort of pregnant mothers in rural China

BACKGROUND

Rice ingestion is an important dietary exposure pathway for methylmercury. There are few studies concerning prenatal methylmercury exposure through rice ingestion, yet the health risks are greatest to the developing fetus, and thus should be investigated.

OBJECTIVES

Our main objective was to quantify dietary methylmercury intake through rice and fish/shellfish ingestion among pregnant mothers living in southern China, where rice was a staple food and mercury contamination was considered minimal.

METHODS

A total of 398 mothers were recruited at parturition, who donated scalp hair and blood samples. Total mercury and/or methylmercury concentrations were measured in biomarkers, in rice samples from each participant's home, and in fish tissue purchased from local markets. Additional fish/shellfish mercury concentrations were obtained from a literature search. Dietary methylmercury intake during the third trimester was equivalent to the ingestion rate for rice (or fish/shellfish)×the respective methylmercury concentration.

RESULTS

Dietary methylmercury intake from both rice and fish/shellfish ingestion averaged 1.2±1.8µg/day (median=0.79µg/day, range=0-22µg/day), including on average 71% from rice ingestion (median: 87%, range: 0-100%), and 29% from fish/shellfish consumption (median 13%, range: 0-100%). Median concentrations of hair total mercury, hair methylmercury, and blood total mercury were 0.40µg/g (range: 0.08-1.7µg/g), 0.28µg/g (range: 0.01-1.4µg/g), and 1.2µg/L (range: 0.29-8.6µg/L), respectively, and all three biomarkers were positively correlated with dietary methylmercury intake through rice ingestion (Spearman's rho=0.18-0.21, p≤0.0005), although the correlations were weak. In contrast, biomarkers were not correlated with fish/shellfish methylmercury intake (Spearman's rho=0.04-0.08, p=0.11-0.46).

CONCLUSIONS

Among pregnant mothers living in rural inland China, rice ingestion contributed to prenatal methylmercury exposure, more so than fish/shellfish ingestion.