Estimated Daily Intake Research Articles

Essential and Non-Essential Elemental Composition and Health Risks in Pacific Sardine in the Northwest Pacific Ocean

Pacific sardine (Sardinops sagax) in the northwest Pacific Ocean (NPO) not only preserve the equilibrium of the NPO food chain, but also serve as a source of nutrition for humans. In order to evaluate the levels of various elements in S. sagax, we collected specimens from NWP waters and ascertained the quantities of four macronutrients, nine essential trace elements, and twelve non-essential trace elements. The factors (fatness, sex, sexual maturity, body length, body weight, and age) influencing the concentration were investigated, and the correlations of trace elements were examined. Additionally, the Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) approach and the Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) methodology were used to assess contamination levels and associated consumption risks. The results revealed that the macronutrient content (54–10,500 mg kg−1) was higher than the necessary trace elements (0–488 mg kg−1) and the non-essential trace elements (0–448 mg kg−1), and most of the elements showed positive correlation with each other. Almost all of the element concentrations were below the maximum permitted levels (MPLs) recommended by the FAO/WHO, except for As and Cd. The factors, including fatness, sexual maturity, body length, body weight, and age, showed a negative correlation with most of the trace elements. The outcomes of the stepwise regression analysis showed that sex and stage of sexual maturation were the principal biological factors influencing elemental content. The risk assessment and standard dietary intake levels indicated that the potential health issues associated with the consumption of S. sagax were negligible.

Ethnobotanical, ecological and health risk assessment of some selected wild medicinal plants collected along mafic and Ultra Mafic rocks of Northwest Pakistan.

The current study investigated wild plant resources and health risk assessment along with northern Pakistan's mafic and ultramafic regions. Ethnobotanical data was collected through field visits and semi-structured questionnaire surveys conducted from local inhabitants and healers. Six potentially toxic elements (PTEs) such as lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn) were extracted with acids and analyzed using atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS, Perkin Elmer-7000) in nine selected wild medicinal plants. Contamination factor (CF), pollution load index (PLI), estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), and hazard index (HI) were used to determine the health risk assessment of the studied medicinal plants. The results showed that the selected medicinal plants were used for the treatments of cough, joint swelling, cardiovascular disorders, toothaches, diabetes, and skin pimples by the local inhabitants due to their low-cost and easy accessibility. The concentrations of Pb (3.4-53mgkg-1), Cd (0.03-0.39mgkg-1), Ni (17.5-82mgkg-1), Cr (29-315mgkg-1), Mn (20-142mgkg-1), and Zn (7.4-64mgkg-1) in the studied medicinal plants were found above the safe limits (except Zn) set by WHO/FAO/USEPA (1984/2010). The Pb contamination factor was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in A. modesta (7.84) and D. viscosa (6.81), and Cd contamination factor was significantly higher in C. officinalis (26.67),followed by A. modesta (8.0) mg kg-1. Based on PTE concentrations, the studied plants are considered not suitable for human consumption purposes. Pollution load index values for A. modesta, A. barbadensis, A. caudatus, A. indica, C. procera (2.93), D. viscosa (2.79), and C. officinalis (2.83), R. hastatus (3.12), and Z. armatum were observed as 1.00, 2.80, 2.29, 2.29, 2.93, 2.79, 2.83, 3.12 and 2.19, respectively. Hazard index values were in order of R. hastatus (1.32 × 10-1) ˃ C. procera (1.21 × 10-1) ˃ D. viscosa (1.10 × 10-1) ˃ A. caudatus (9.11 × 10-2) ˃ A. barbadensis (8.66 × 10-2) ˃ Z. armatum (7.99 × 10-2) ˃ A. indica (6.87 × 10-2) ˃ A. modesta (5.6 × 10-2) ˃ C. officinalis (5.42 × 10-2). The health risk index values suggested that consumption of these plants individually or in combination would cause severe health problems in the consumers. Pearson's correlation results showed a significant correlation (p ≤ 0.001) between Zn and Mn in the studied medicinal plants. The current study suggests that wild medicinal plants should be adequately addressed for PTEs and other carcinogenic pollutants before their uses in the study area. Open dumping of mining waste should be banned and eco-friendly technology like organic amendments application should be used to mitigate PTEs in the study area.

Common myrtle (Myrtus communis L.): Trace element composition and contribution to dietary intake

Common myrtle (Myrtus communis L.) is an appreciated aromatic and medicinal plant used as a flavor and fragrance ingredient in culinary applications, and possesses several bioactive compounds with marked health benefits. In the present investigation selected mineral and trace element concentrations were measured in Algerian myrtle leaves by energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) spectrometry. The results show that K, Fe and P were present in high amounts with mean values of 17,971 ± 17.9, 750 ± 17 and 705 ± 11 μg–1 respectively. The decreasing sequence of the mean contents of essential elements in M. communis is as follows: K > Fe > P > Mn > Zn > Cu > V > Cr. The estimation of daily intake through the consumption of 10 g DW day−1person−1 contributes sufficiently or partially to the daily needs of some essential elements such as Fe, V, Cr, and Mn. Toxic element concentrations (As and Br) were found inferior than the set limits according to the world health organization (FAO/WHO). These results provide a new data reference for pharmaceutical and culinary purposes.

Assessment of trace elements (Cu, Fe, and Zn) in Limnothrissa miodon from Lake Kariba, Zambia: implications for ecological and human health

ABSTRACT This study examined Copper (Cu), Iron (Fe), and Zinc (Zn) levels in Limnothrissa miodon fish from Lake Kariba in Zambia and their potential impact on human health. Two-gram samples from each stratum underwent a 12-hour digestion, and concentrations were determined using Microwave Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometer. Results indicated that Cu, Fe, and Zn concentrations fell within Food and Agricultural Organization and World Health Organization safety limits. Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) and Hazard Quotient (THQ) values for males and females remained under recommended thresholds, suggesting minimal health risks from consumption. Element concentrations followed the order Fe > Zn > Cu, all below Recommended Daily Allowances (RDAs). THQ values, with Zn posing the highest potential risk followed by Fe and Cu, were under one. Overall, the Hazard Index (HI) was 0.02, signifying a low non-carcinogenic risk from fish consumption. Despite safety, ongoing monitoring of heavy metal accumulation in the ecosystem is advisable for long-term safety. In conclusion, trace element levels in Limnothrissa miodon from Lake Kariba are safe for human consumption with low associated health risks. Nonetheless, continued monitoring of heavy metal levels is vital.

Contamination levels of perfluorinated and polyfluoroalkyl compounds in breast milk and assessment of their exposure risk to infants

The purposes of this study are to explore the contamination levels of perfluorinated and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in breast milk and assess their exposure risk to infants. Based on data from a birth cohort study conducted in Yingcheng, Hubei Province, from 2018 to 2021, the contents of 23 types of PFASs in the breast milk of 324 pregnant women were determined using isotope dilution-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Multiple linear regression was then performed to analyze the effects of various demographic characteristics and eating habits on the concentration of PFASs in breast milk. The daily PFASs intake of infants through breast milk was estimated, and the exposure risk of infants was also assessed. The results revealed that 23 types of PFASs in breast milk had good linear relationships in the range of 0.2-100 ng/mL, with correlation coefficients greater than 0.992. The limits of detection were 5-42 pg/mL, the limits of quantification were 15-126 pg/mL, the recoveries were 65.6%-108.1%, and the relative standard deviations were 1.6%-12.8%. Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluorooctanoate acid (PFOA), and perfluorohexanesulfonic acid (PFHxS), with median concentrations of 200.7, 63.5, and 25.2 pg/mL, respectively, were the main PFASs found in breast milk. The detection rates of these three contaminants were higher than 80%, whereas the detection rates of other compounds were lower than 45%. The results of multiple linear regression showed that older pregnant women and a higher frequency of pickled food intake may be related to increased PFAS levels in breast milk whereas a higher frequency of legume intake may be related to decreased PFAS levels in breast milk. The median estimated daily intakes (EDIs) of PFOS, PFOA, and PFHxS for infants were 25.1, 7.9, and 3.2 ng/(kg·d), respectively. In summary, this study found notable PFAS levels in breast milk in Yingcheng, Hubei Province. Among these PFASs, PFOS, PFOA, and PFHxS were the main contaminants. Maternal age as well as pickled food and legume intake may affect the PFAS level in breast milk. The health risk of PFAS intake through breast milk to some infants is worthy of attention and further study.

Elemental composition and evaluation of noncarcinogenic risks of bee pollen from different Turkish areas.

Bee pollen is a complex compound formed by the honey bee through a mixture pollen, nectar, and bee saliva. It contains many elements that have importance for the human biochemical process. However, when the content of minerals in the pollen exceeds the biological limit, it can be toxic to health. This study aimed to assess and identify the presence of 16 essential (potassium [K], phosphorus [P], calcium [Ca], magnesium [Mg], sodium [Na], iron [Fe], silicon [Si], manganese [Mn], zinc [Zn], boron [B], copper [Cu], molybdenum [Mo], nickel [Ni], chromium [Cr], selenium [Se], and cobalt [Co]) and 16 nonessential elements (aluminum [Al], beryllium [Be], barium [Ba], arsenic [As], cadmium [Cd], mercury [Hg], thallium [Tl], lithium [Li], antimony [Sb], vanadium [V], lead [Pb], rubidium [Rb], strontium [Sr], cesium [Cs], titanium [Ti], and uranium [U]) in bee pollen samples from different floral sources in Turkey, while also evaluating the noncarcinogenic risks associated with bee pollen. A melissopalynological investigation was conducted to identify the plant origins of the bee pollen samples. Thereafter, the levels of 32 elements in bee pollen samples were quantified using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Finally, calculations were performed to determine the recommended dietary allowance percentage (RDA%), estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), and hazard index (HI). The bee pollen samples had varying levels of macro, trace, and ultratrace elements, with K, P, Ca, Mg, and Na being the most abundant macro elements and Ti, Ba, Ni, Cr, and V being the least abundant ultratrace elements. The RDA% values for essential elements in bee pollen were found to vary, with Cu, Zn, Fe, and Cr having the highest levels. The results of the THQ and HI calculations demonstrated that consuming bee pollen at recommended rates did not pose a risk to the health of adults or children. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:1575-1585. © 2023 SETAC.

HEALTH RISK ASSESSMENT FROM THE CONSUMPTION OF Moringa oleifera LEAVES CULTIVATED ALONG RIVER GINZO, KATSINA

Heavy metals have a relatively high density and occur naturally in the environment or introduced by anthropogenic activities. They may be essential or non-essential to living organisms causing toxicity, environmental pollution or contaminate food chain. This research determined the hazard from ingestion of Moringa Oleifera leaves cultivated along River Ginzo, Katsina through the Estimation of Daily Intake of Metals (EDIM), Target Hazard Quotient/Hazard Index (THQ/HI) and Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risk (ILCR) from exposure to Co, Cu Pb and Ni in the leave samples obtained by random sampling. Heavy metals in samples were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS) and analysed using Social Package for Social Science. The Result showed that levels of Co in all samples exceeded the 0.05ppm permissible limit in irrigation water. Values of Pb, Ni, and Cu and Ni in all soil samples exceeded the 0.05ppm, 0.30ppm and 0.05ppm USEPA, 2000 acceptable limits. Concentration of metals in leave samples are within the WHO/FAO 2014 acceptable limits. EDIM in M. oliefera were below tolerable daily intake, implying no health risk. THQ/HI for both essential and non-essential elements in leave samples were &gt;1, implying no health hazard. ILCR showed potential risk of contracting cancer from the consumption of M. oleifera leaves grown in the study areas as Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risk values exceed the acceptable and negligible range of 10-4-10-6particularly of Ni (2.23E-2). As a result, measures should be put in place to prevent disposal of wastes containing heavy metals into River Ginzo used for irrigation purposes.

Evaluation of essential and trace metals/metalloids distribution and probable human health risk implications from branded liquid and powder milks available in Dhaka City, Bangladesh.

The processed forms of milk, branded liquid, and power milk available in Dhaka city, the capital of Bangladesh, were investigated for essential and trace metal/metalloids regarding nutritional and human health risk aspects. For this, the potential nutritional contribution, estimated daily intake (EDI) and non-carcinogenic risk for six different life stages with male and female categories, as well as the carcinogenic risk for children and adults of both genders, were addressed. In total, 46 branded liquid and powder milk samples were considered for this analysis employing atomic absorption spectroscopy. The concentration of essential elements showed the trends of K > Ca > Na > Mg > Fe > Zn > Mn > Cu and K > Ca > Na > Mg > Fe > Cu > Mn > Zn for liquid and powder milk samples, respectively, but the potentially hazardous one showed the same trends (Cr > Pb > Hg > As > Cd) for both items. Except for Cr, Hg, and Fe, the elemental compositions of both milk categories differed considerably (< 0.05). Compared to the threshold values for milk samples (liquid and powder), Fe (19% and 27%), Mn (100% and 63%), Cu (0% and 23%), Zn (94% and 0%), Pb (25% and 13%), and Cr (0% and 3%) showed above the permissible limits. The nutrient input was the highest for Ca (27.2% and 18.7%), followed by Mg, K, and Na. The EDI of studied elements was within the daily permissible limit in both the milk category (except age group (≤ 3) and the female category). The non-carcinogenic risk assessment showed that the age groups ≤ 3 for liquid milk and ≤ 3 and 3 < X ≤ 14 with female categories for powder milk exceeded the threshold level (> 1) in the case of Cr, Cd, As, Zn, and Mn. The probable carcinogenic risks indicated an unacceptable risk level (< 1.00E-04) for the ingestion of Cr through powder milk samples for children in male and female categories. Finally, it believes that green cow farming practices and green milk processing technology, as well as continuous monitoring of toxic metals, can limit the ultimate risk worldwide.

Mercury risk assessment scenarios: exposure from fish dietary behaviors of Katingan River Basin community

ABSTRACT Katingan River has been contaminated by mercury from ASGM activities since the early 2000s. This study aims to assess the risk of mercury exposure from Katingan fish consumption and analyze relationships between exposure variables. We proposed two risk assessment scenarios based on mercury analysis of 74 fish samples and fish consumption questionnaire. The risk assessment result revealed that estimated daily intakes (EDIs) of Scenario 2 were generally 3–4 times higher than Scenario 1. The statistical test results showed significant differences (p < 0.05) in EDI values between scenarios, indicating that variations in fish consumption influenced the mercury intake. Three different health reference-based values (HRVs) were applied in estimating the hazard quotient (HQ) and it influenced the HQ results (p < 0.05), for both scenarios. The relationship analysis between variables presented a strong non-linear correlation between EDI and hair mercury level for both scenarios, but a weak relationship between age and hair mercury level.

Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers in Human Milk of Croatian First-Time Mothers: 2010 Versus 2020.

The presence of selected polybrominated diphenyl ethers (BDE-28, -47, -99, -100, -153, -154, and -183) was investigated in human milk samples collected from first-time mothers living in Zagreb, capital of Croatia. Samples from 2020 and 2010 were analyzed, and the first temporal comparison between the profiles and levels of these compounds in this area was obtained. A statistically significant difference between mass fractions depending on the sampling year was observed only for BDE-99, with values in 2020 higher than in 2010. BDE-153, whose median value (0.25 and 0.26ngg-1 lipid weight (l.w.) in 2010 and 2020, respectively) did not decrease in the 10-year period, was the most frequently detected congener in samples from both years. ΣPBDEs ranged from < LOD to 3.53ngg-1l.w. (median 0.25ngg-1l.w.), and from 0.14 to 6.75ngg-1l.w. (median 0.55ngg-1l.w.) in 2010 and 2020, respectively. Maternal age and reported fish consumption had no effect on observed PBDE mass fractions, while for BDE-153, positive significant correlation (p > 0.05) was observed of its detected mass fraction with mother's body mass index (BMI) before pregnancy and after childbirth. Infants median estimated daily intake (EDI) via milk ingestion for ΣPBDE was higher in 2020 (3.221 ng kg-1 bw day-1) compared to 2010 (1.429ngkg-1bwday-1), but both values were well below threshold value, indicating that human milk consumption in this specific case is unlikely to raise health risks to infants.

Fungal profile, levels of aflatoxin M1, exposure, and the risk characterization of local cheese ‘wagashi’ consumed in the Ho Municipality, Volta Region, Ghana

Wagashi is a West African type cottage cheese locally prepared from cow milk. Wagashi like other milk products, is prone to microbial contamination, particularly by fungi. Many of these fungal species produce mycotoxins which are of serious public health concern. This work aimed to update the mycoflora profile and determine the concentrations of aflatoxin M1 and its health risk characterization due to the consumption of wagashi. Culturing the wagashi on mycological media (Oxytetracycline Glucose Yeast Extract OGYE, Dichloran Rose Bengal Chloramphenicol DRBC) caused a de-novo growth of the quiescent spores at 28–30 °C for 5–7 days. The analysis of AFM1 levels in the samples was done using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography connected to a Fluorescence detector (HPLC-FLD). The exposure and risk assessment to the AFMI levels were determined using deterministic models prescribed by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). The fungal counts ranged between 2.36–4.30 log10 CFU/g. In total, thirteen (13) fungal species from eight (8) genera were isolated from all wagashi samples. They are; Fusarium oxysporum, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Fusarium verticillioides, Penicillium digitatum, Trichoderma harzianum, Aspergillus terreus, Rhodotorula mucilaginosa, Rhizopus stolonifer, Aspergillus fumigatus, Yeast sp., Mucor racemosus and Fusarium oligosporum belonging to the genera Fusarium, Aspergillus, Penicillium, Trichoderma, Rhodotorula, Rhizopus, Yeast, and Mucor. The AFM1 observed in the wagashi samples' analysis was low, ranging from 0.00 (Not Detected) ± 0.00 − 0.06 ± 0.002 µg/Kg. Risk assessments of AFM1 using deterministic models produced outcomes that ranged between 5.92 × 10−3- 0.14 ng/kg bw/day, 1.42 –44.35, 0–0.0323 ng aflatoxins/kg bw/day, and 1.51 × 10−3 − 9.69 × 10−4 cases/100,000 person/yr for estimated daily intake (EDI), margin of exposure (MOE), average potency, and cancer risks, respectively, for the age categories investigated. Fungal counts were interpreted as medium to high. It was also established that the consumption of wagashi may pose adverse health effects on all age categories in the selected zones of the study since all calculated MOE values were less than 100,000.

Essential and non-essential elements in marine silverside Odontesthes argentinensis from southwestern Atlantic coast: Tissues bioaccumulation, biomagnification and public health risk assessment

In order to assess the metal pollution in the southwestern Atlantic coast, levels of eleven metals: Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sr, and Zn and one metalloid: As in water and tissues of Odontesthes argentinensis from the Samborombón Bay (SB) and Partido de La Costa (PC) were examined. Additionally, bioconcentration, and bioaccumulation factors, estimated daily intake (EDI) for adults and children, and the hazard risk for fishermen and general populations were evaluated. Cadmium, Cu and Zn levels in the water samples exceeded the limits established by international guidelines for the protection of aquatic life in marine environments (CCME). The liver showed the highest concentrations of As, Cu, Fe, and Zn, while muscle showed the least levels of all elements examined. Bioaccumulation of Cd, Cu, Mn, Pb and Zn were observed in all tissues, while Ba and Sr bioaccumulated significantly in the gills. The fish δ15N values significantly varied between sites, however, no biodilution or biomagnification was observed. The Target Hazard Quotients (THQ) and the Carcinogenic Risk (CR) indices suggest that there is no human health risk to the fishermen and general populations from the O. argentinensis consumption. Furthermore, As (27%) and Cr (33%) concentrations in silversides from PC and SB, respectively, exceeded the levels recommended by local and international guidelines.

Halogenated organic pollutants (HOPs) in marine fish collected from central-northern coastal waters in Vietnam

ABSTRACT In this work, three groups of halogenated organic pollutants (HOPs) including polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine compounds (OCPs) were analysed simultaneously in twenty-six fish species from coastal waters along the North and Central of Vietnam. Samples were randomly collected, dry-free freeze for pre-treatment, extracted by accelerated solvent extraction combined with cleaning up on multi-layers silica gel column before analysing on the GC-MS/MS system. The concentration of analytes was quantified by internal standard method and controlled with corresponding label standards. The decreasing order of HOP concentrations was ∑20OCPs (mean/median: 158/139 ng/g-wet weight (ww), range: 31.1-406 ng/g-ww) > ∑28PCBs (mean/median: 46.6/36.5 ng/g-ww, range: 5.92-225 ng/g-ww) > ∑8PBDEs (mean/median: 28.7/4.76 ng/g-ww, range: 0.26-212 ng/g-ww). The mean concentration of BDE-209 was the highest distribution (76.5%) in PBDE group, followed by BDE-154 (6.6%), and BDE-153 (5.7%). For PCBs group, hexa-CBs were the most contribution among PCBs and up to 26.1%, followed by Penta-CBs (24.4%), and Tetra-CBs (18.2%) in concentration. The mean concentration of ∑DDTs, accounting to 61.6% of total OCPs, contributed the highest level in this OCP group. The ratio of (DDE+DDD)/DDT in all samples was higher than 1, showing that DDTs were mainly derived from historical. The equivalent toxicity (TEQ) values of 12 dl-PCBs in all samples ranged between 1.1-5.9 ng TEQ/g-ww. The estimated daily intake (EDI) is lower than the Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) set by FAO/WHO, 1975 (20,000 ng/kg-bw/d for DDTs and 5,000 ng/kg-bw/d for γ-BHC). Intakes of HOPs through the consumption of the marine fish from the studied areas might not subject about health risks to residents living of the coastal areas. However, it is important to know current pollution status and further control marine food pollution in Vietnam as well as propose the appropriate solutions to improve this issue.

Human health risk assessment of heavy metals accumulation in different genders and tissues of whiting fish (Merlangius merlangus euxinus Nordmann, 1840) from Rize, Turkey

The contamination of fish resulting from marine pollution is a major concern, as it poses potential adverse effects on human health. Therefore, heavy metal concentrations (Cr, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, and Pb) in different genders and tissues (muscle, liver, gonads and gills) of whiting fish collected from fish markets in Rize province were determined by Inductively–coupled plasma optic emission spectrometry (ICP–OES). The concentration ranges of heavy metals in all tissue samples, based on the overall average, were as follows (mg/kg wet weight): Cr: 0.081–0.25, Fe: 2.3–40, Ni: 0.070–0.095, Cu: 0.33–1.01, Zn: 3.0–20, and Pb: 0.015–0.043. The results indicated that the liver and gills exhibited a higher metal accumulation capacity compared to other tissues, whereas the muscle consistently displayed the lowest metal concentrations. The metal concentrations in the muscle were found to be below the maximum permissible levels set by international organizations for seafood. Additionally, calculated estimated daily intake (EDI), metal pollution index (MPI), target hazard quotient (THQ), total exposure hazard index (HI), and target carcinogenic risk (TR) indicate no potential risk to humans from whiting fish consumption.

Health risk assessment of heavy metals in wild fish and seasonal variation and source identification of heavy metals in sediments: a case study of typical urban river in Xi'an, China.

In order to determine the status of heavy metal pollution in river sediments and wild fish in Xi'an, concentrations of heavy metals (Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, and Pb) were collected and analyzed in sediments and wild fish during dry season (October-November 2020) and wet season (June-July 2021). This study aimed to investigate the spatial and temporal variations of heavy metals in urban rivers of Xi'an, China. Their distribution characteristics and sources as well their pollution levels and health risks were assessed. The findings revealed that influenced by human activities, the heavy metal content in sediments (mg·kg-1 dry weight) in wet season was ranked as follows: Cr (73.09) > Zn (63.73) > Pb (40.31) > Ni (31.52) > Cu (24.86) > As (6.83); in the dry season: Zn (94.07) > Cr (69.59) > Cu (34.24) > Ni (33.60) > Pb (32.87) > As (7.60). Moreover, 32 fish samples from six species indicated an average metal content trend (mg·kg-1 wet weight) of Zn (8.70) > Cr (0.57) > Pb (0.28) > Ni (0.27) > Cu (0.24) > As (0.05). The potential ecological risk indices for sediment heavy metal concentrations in both seasons were well below the thresholds, which indicates that the aquatic environment is in safe level. The analysis of the potential ecological risk of sediment heavy metal concentrations indicates that the aquatic environment is safe for the time being. Based on the estimated daily intake (EDI), target risk quotient (THQ), total target risk quotient (TTHQ), cancer risk (CR), total cancer risk (TCR), and the permissible safety limits set by the agencies, the consumption of the fish examined is safe for human health. However, the presence of Cr and As in wild fish should still be a concern for human health, especially for children. The cumulative effect of heavy metals and the bioconcentration factor (BCF) suggest that sediment and heavy metals in fish are closely related, with higher concentrations in fish living in the bottom layer of the water column than in other water layers, and increasing with increasing predator levels. Correlation analysis and PMF modeling identified and determined four comparable categories of potential sources, namely, (1) atmospheric deposition and traffic sources, (2) agricultural sources, (3) industrial sources, and (4) natural sources.

Detection, distribution, and health risk assessment of heavy metals in wild catfish sold in Maiduguri Metropolis of Borno State, Northeastern Nigeria

Heavy metals (HMs) are naturally occurring elements with high atomic weights and a density at least five times greater than water. HMs can be released into the soil, water, and air through industrial, domestic, agricultural run-offs, medical and technological activities. Thirty wild fresh catfish were bought from two major fish markets in Maiduguri (Custom and Monday markets). Zinc (Zn) and Arsenic (As) were determined by Atomic Absorption spectrophotometer. Data obtained were analyzed using descriptivestatistics and independent sample t-tests. The estimated daily intake (EDI) of the metals was calculated, and the target cancer risk (TCR), target hazard quotient (THQ), and hazard index (HI) was derived. The mean concentration (mg/Kg ± SD) of Zn in the liver (0.26 ± 0.32) was higher compared to that in muscle (0.22 ± 0.27), but this was not statistically different (t (58) = 0.608, p = 0.545). However, the mean concentration of As in the liver (0.27 ± 0.33) was lower compared to that in the muscle (0.28 ± 0.23), but this was not statistically different (t (52) = -0.003, p = 0.997). Although, no significant statistical difference, the mean concentration ranking of Zn based on the Fish market was Monday market &gt; custom market, while that of As was custom market &gt; Monday market. EDI values were within tolerable limits. TCR, THQ, and HI values obtained were below the threshold of 1. In conclusion, HMs (Zn and As) were detected in the liver and muscle of all fish samples tested at a lower rate compared to their Maximum Permissible Limits (MPLs) set by the World Health Organization (WHO). However, because of their non-degradable nature and tendency to bio-accumulate in fish tissues and organs, it can be concluded that long-term consumption poses a greater Public Health risk of HMs intoxications in the study area. Therefore, fish consumers should be enlightened more about the harmful effects of HM toxicity by relevant health authorities.

Organochlorine Pesticides in Dairy Cows’ Diet and the Carryover into Milk in NW Romania

Since modern agriculture relies on high volumes of chemical pesticides, monitoring the exposure to these dangerous substances in feed and the food chain is crucial. This study investigates the transfer of organochlorine pesticide (OCP) from water, soil, and feed to milk in free-range dairy cows using the carryover rates (CORs) and biotransfer factors (BTFs) from feed to milk as tools that can be used for human and animal risk assessments. BTFs can predict the transfer of OCPs into milk due to cows’ ingestion of contaminated feed. Samples were collected from ten small-scale dairy cow farms located near Baia Mare city, NW Romania, identified for distributing fresh milk in the local market. After the appropriate extraction was performed, the OCP concentrations were measured by gas chromatography equipped with an electron capture detector and randomly confirmed using mass spectrometry. The most prominent compounds in the soil, feed, and milk samples were hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) isomers and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and its metabolites. The concentrations of OCPs were lower than the maximum admissible values in feed, water, soil, and milk. The CORs of OCPs varied over four orders of magnitudes, from 0.10% (2,4′–dichlorodiphenylchloroethylene, 2,4′–DDE) to 250% (4,4′–dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane, 4,4′–DDT). Similar to CORs, the values of BTFs varied largely, from 0.0001 to 1.408. Additionally, the values higher than the unit for some BTFs could be due to the accumulation and biomagnification of these organochlorine compounds in the animal body. The cows’ dietary exposure was evaluated by the estimated daily intake (EDI), considering the three components of ingestion (feed, water, and soil), and varied in the range of 0.0008–0.3509 µg/day/body weight (bw).

Investigation of heavy metals in tissues and habitats of three edible frogs from Türkiye.

The soil, water, and organisms have been contaminated by heavy metals due to human activities and industrialization, which has produced a major environmental problem that has a deleterious effect on human health and food quality. Frogs, one of the good bioindicators for environmental pollution, are also among the alternative essential protein sources for humans. In Türkiye, three of these frogs are edible: Pelophylax ridibundus, Pelophylax bedriagae, and Pelophylax caralitanus, also known as Anatolian water frogs. Hence, to assess the possible health risks that might result from consuming frog legs in addition aquatic habitat of Anatolian water frogs, the water, sediment, and frog tissue samples (muscle and liver) were obtained from 11 different provinces covering all regions of Türkiye and analyzed to determine Cd, Cu, Cr, Zn, Pb, and As concentrations. The results revealed considerable variations in heavy metal concentrations among frog tissues, influenced by the sampling sites and species (ANOVA: p < 0.05). The Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) values, calculated based on the average serving size, were also lower than the Provisional Tolerable Daily Intake (PTDI) levels for adult consumers. Furthermore, the study computed the Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) values for heavy metals, all of which were below the critical value of 1, indicating that consuming the hind leg muscles from these frog species would not pose an adverse health risk for humans.

Assessment of heavy metal concentrations and bioaccumulation in the invasive round goby (Neogobius melanostomus) and associated risks to human health

The round goby (Neogobius melanostomus) is an invasive species that can be used as a raw material in the food industry and also as a bioindicator of heavy metal pollution in the environment. In this study, Cd, Co, Cr, Mo, Ni, and Pb were determined in water, bottom sediment, muscle, liver, gills, and gonads of round goby from Dąbie Lake, Szczecin Lagoon, and Puck Bay (all in southern Baltic Sea) using atomic absorption spectrometry. Fulton’s condition factor, gonadal and hepatosomatic indices (GSI, HSI) were calculated. Based on estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), and carcinogenic risk (CR), we assessed the human health risk related to the consumption of heavy metals in the round goby. The fish had length and weight ranges of 15.0–16.7 cm and 55.3–80.9 g, respectively. Fulton’s condition factor ranged from 1.26 to 2.48 and was highest (p < 0.05) for fish from Dąbie Lake. The range of metal concentrations (in μg kg−1) ranged from 2.92 (Cd in muscles of fish from Szczecin Lagoon) to 106.4 (Ni in muscles of fish from Dąbie Lake). The highest concentrations of Cd, Co, Mo, and Pb were found in livers, Ni in muscles and gonads, and Cr in gills. The calculated EDIs were below the reference oral dose (RfD) and maximum for Cd (1.6% RfD) and Pb (15.1% RfD). The hazard quotient was less than 1. In conclusion, the round goby has a higher potential to accumulate metals from water than from bottom sediments. Consumption of its muscle should not pose a health risk (cancer risk can be considered acceptable). Due to Pb accumulation, moderate consumption should be recommended for pregnant women and children. Finally, our results indicate that the round goby (especially its liver) can be used as a bioindicator to monitor metal contamination of aquatic ecosystems.

Pesticide residues in different honey types and public health risk assessment

Honeybees and humans are endangered by pesticides in daily agricultural production. The aim of this research was to investigate pesticide residues in different honey types and to assess the risk to public health. A total of 88 honey samples originating from pine, multifloral, sunflower, acacia, linden, and canola were collected and analysed by a QuEChERS method. The hazard quotient (HQ) was used to evaluate the risk of detected pesticide residues. Analysis of pine honey did not detect any residue of investigated pesticides. The most frequently detected pesticides in the honey samples were chlorpyrifos ranging between 15.1 µg/kg (linden honey) to 22.3 µg/kg (multifloral honey), clothianidin ranging between 12.0 µg/kg (acacia honey) to 22.0 µg/kg (canola honey), dimethoate ranging between 8.9 µg/kg (multifloral honey) to 18.9 µg/kg (canola honey), and thiamethoxam ranging between 4.2 µg/kg (linden honey) to 15.6 µg/kg (canola honey), respectively. The lowest estimated daily intake (EDI) of 128 × 10-3 μg/kg of body weight per day was found in acacia honey, and the highest EDI of 265 × 10-3 μg/kg of body weight per day was found in canola honey. Similar values of EDI were determined for multifloral, sunflower, and linden honey (186 × 10-3, 187 × 10-3, and 183 × 10-3), respectively. The HQ value for pine honey was 0 indicating that this honey is the safest for consumption, however, the other types of honey investigated in this study posed no risk to humans after potential consumption.