Distribution of polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs) in the whole blood of typical meat animals

Abstract

The concentrations and distribution of polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs) in the whole blood of eight typical terrestrial meat animals (chicken, duck, rabbit, pig, cattle, sheep, horse and donkey) consumed daily in our life were investigated. The total concentrations (on a liquid volume basis) of PCNs were in a range from 305 to 987pg/L. Donkey blood contained the highest PCN concentrations. Mono-CNs were the dominant homolog group, accounting for 38%–71% PCNs. Apart from the mono-CNs and tri-CNs homolog groups, two hepta-CNs (mean: 9.5%) contributed most, followed by tetra-CNs (mean: 6.5%). The congeners CN1, 5/7, 24/14, 27/30, 52/60, 66/67, and 73 were the most abundant congeners or congener groups. The highest toxicity equivalencies (TEQs) were observed in cattle blood (117.4fg TEQ/L) then chicken blood (117.1fg TEQ/L). CN73 contributed 65% to total TEQs, followed by CN70 (20%) and CN66/67 (14%). The dietary intakes of PCNs were also estimated. Chicken meat, which forms the second largest component of meat product consumption in China, contributed most to the total TEQs (61%), followed by beef (27%) and pork (5.9%). The consumption of chicken might pose the highest risk from exposure to PCNs than other types of meat to populations who prefer to eat chicken meat.