Concentrations, seasonality, and risk assessment of cadmium in scallop, Bractechlamys vexillum (Reeve 1853) in the Visayan Sea, Philippines

Abstract

Scallop, specifically Bractechlamys vexillum is one of the economically important fishery resources in Central Philippines. However, international trade can be constrained due to high concentrations of cadmium. The present study on the concentrations of contamination, seasonality, and risk assessment of Cd in B. vexillum is necessary to assist competent authorities in strengthening regulatory frameworks that will address food safety issues. Sample collection was conducted in major producing areas in the Visayan Sea. Analytical determination of Cd was carried out using Inductively Coupled Plasma – Optical Emission Spectrometry for scallop samples and Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer – Graphite Furnace Atomizer for both water and sediment samples. Concentrations of Cd in B. vexillum from Visayan Sea mostly exceeded the 1.0 mg/kg maximum allowable limit based on Philippines and EU regulations. Nearly 95% of B. vexillum samples collected from the control area in adjacent Camotes Sea passed the regulatory limit. Higher concentrations of cadmium were recorded in dry season. Preliminary risk assessment obtained in this study showed that the percentage of the population that might contract cancer is 0.01–0.6% for exposed children, 0.08–4% for teens, and 0.2–1% for adults. No significant correlation was obtained between the cadmium content of B. vexillum, water, and sediments. The baseline data generated from this study could be useful for the conduct of further study to evaluate the risk associated with consumption of scallops. Moreover, regular monitoring of cadmium contamination in the Visayan Sea is essential for policy recommendation including risk management and communication.