A study of trace metals in some edible fishes and food risk assessment of its consumption in the Hormozgan province, Iran of the Persian Gulf

Heavy metals in marine systems are a global problem, since continuous exposure of marine organisms to their low concentrations may result in bioaccumulation, and subsequent transfer to man through the food web. The aim of this study was to determine the concentrations of heavy metals (Pb, Ni, Cu, Zn and Fe) in edible part of three benthic and pelagic fish species Fish (SilagoSihama), Crab (portunussegnis) and Shrimp (Metapenaeusaffinis) collected from three areas (Qeshm, Khamir port and Laft port) in the Persian Gulf. The fish samples were collected during 2015. The analytical determination of Pb, Ni, Cu, Zn and Fe were performed by using flame atomic absorption spectrometry after microwave digestion procedure, and consumption rates advisory for minimizing chronic systemic effects in children and adults were estimated. The results showed that metal concentrations in the muscle of all fish species were significantly lower than the proposed limits. Heavy metal concentrations were found to be substantially higher in benthic fish than in pelagic fish. Hazard index values based on four metals (not including Pb) for the child age class were higher than those of the adult age class, suggesting that children may suffer from a higher health risk. In general, the THQ measured in this study was <1, indicating no food risk in present consumption rate (21 g/day) of these fish. Food risk assessment of case study species indicates that the consumption of Metapenaeusaffinis, portunussegnis and SilagoSihama with the current consumption rate causes no danger to consumers from the viewpoint of zinc, nickel, lead, copper and iron.