Quantification Of Heavy Metals Research Articles

Microwave-assisted sample preparation for screening of heavy metal elements in food additives by ICP-MS

The screening of heavy metals in food additives is important for public health due to their probable critical effects, induced by excessive intakes, and difficulties in tracing in food matrix. This study aimed to assess the applicability of microwave (MW)-based digestion and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) for quantification of heavy metals in food additives. MW-assisted diluted acid digestion (1550 W at 220 °C, 0.79 mol/L of HNO3 solution) was applied as a pretreatment and ICP-MS was used for 19 different heavy metals at different concentrations, up to 20 ng/g. The optimized protocol was validated by spiking heavy metals to glycerin and applied to 18 food additives. The method was linear for 14 heavy metals (R2 > 0.990). For 11 heavy metals, both intra- and inter-day accuracies in glycerin were estimated to 88.5%–123.7%, with intra- and inter-day precisions of less than 5.5% and 4.9%, respectively, and their contents in food additives were discussed. The findings in this work provide an alternative analytical method for regulatory compliance and quality control in food industries.

Bismuth Film Electrodes: Characterization and Analytical Application

Bismuth film electrodes (BiFE) were first introduced more than two decades ago and have been regarded as a posible alternative to toxic traditional mercury electrodes, both for electro-synthesis and electro-analytical endeavors. However, despite all the associated benefits, there hasn’t been a proper characterization reported for this electrodes and their use is still limited.The present work shows the results of a physicochemical characterization of Bismuth film electrodes, as well as the application of BiFE for the detection and quantification of heavy metals (such as cadmium), which for years have been considered to be important pollutants and are toxic for humans and the environment at large; there for putting at risk the health of all organisms that come into contact with them. The analysis is carried out in a EtOH:H2O mixture at pH 5, simulating the matrix of a traditional mexican alcoholic beverage, Mezcal.The characterization includes: the calculation of the geometric area as well as the electro-active area of the electrode, the composition of the deposited film and it’s texture, and the electrical properties of the modified electrode.The analysis is carried out using Anodic Stripping Square Wave Voltammetry (ASSWV), this allows us to make use of the electrode’s ability to form strong interactions with the analyte, in a similar manner to that of mercury drop electrodes; along with the high sensitivity of this technique.

Full nutritional spectrum and hazard risk assessment of high commodity value aquaculture species in Penang, Malaysia

Aquaculture is a rapidly growing food production sector that aims to alleviate global hunger, malnutrition, food security and nutrient deprivation. This study aimed to update the full spectrum of nutritional composition using aquaculture species. High commodity value aquaculture species in Penang, Malaysia have been shortlisted, followed by nutritional quantification and health risk estimation. Nutritional compositional analysis involved proximate analysis, and amino acid, fatty acid, vitamin, mineral and heavy metal quantification. Health risk assessment was conducted to determine whether the benefits were greater than the risks in the long term. Ten (10) aquaculture species, namely golden pomfret, golden snapper, seabass, bigeye trevally, red snapper, grouper, African catfish, blood cockles, white-leg shrimp and tiger prawn, have been studied extensively. The results showed that all species contained adequate protein and lipid contents, ranging from 13.6 % to 26.9 % and 0.4–15.8 %, respectively. The essential amino acid (EAA) to total amino acid (TAA) ratio of the culture species was comparable to the FAO reference values (50 %), with leucine and lysine demonstrating the most important EAAs. Fatty acid profiling revealed that both seabass and grouper were rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly docosahexaenoic acid. Golden pomfret and red snapper contained the greatest amounts of riboflavin and pyridoxine. The atherogenic and thrombogenic indices were within the permissible ratio (<1), except for those of African catfish. Notably, the arsenic (As) content in blood cockles exceeded the permissible criterion values. Hazard index (HI) assessment indicated that prolonged consumption of blood cockles, white-leg shrimp, tiger prawn, bigeye trevally and golden snapper demonstrated potent non-carcinogenic risk for both adults and children. This study provides an initial platform for informing consumers, stakeholders and policy makers about aquaculture nutritional benefits, consumption safety concern and health indicators.

Quantification of heavy metals in wild gravid female mud crab (Scylla olivacea) collected from different rivers of Sundarbans mangrove region

Heavy metals pollution is one of our major problems in Sundarbans mangrove zone as we all their surrounding rivers. The presence of industrial development in the nearby areas of coastal and marine aquacultures sites are the cause of heavy metals pollution. The aim of the research was to quantify heavy metals in gravid female mud crabs (Scylla olivacea) in three different rivers of Sundarbans region. Mud crabs and their surrounding water and soil sediments were collected from Mongla, Kholpetua, and Kopotakkho rivers. Analysis of river water was conducted in the laboratory of Shiva Analyticals (India) Private Limited, India, whereas live mud crabs and sediment samples were analyzed from Quality Control Laboratory (QCL), Khulna, Bangladesh for the quantification of heavy metals. The results showed that the heavy metals As, Cr, Cd, Hg and Pb were detected in mud crabs and their surrounding river water and sediments, but the concentration of heavy metals in mud crabs was remains below the limit of human’s consumptions except the heavy metal Chromium (Cr). Maximum concentration of heavy metals was detected Kopotakkho river followed by Mongla and Kholpetua river. The concentration of heavy metals was highest in soil sediments followed by mud crabs and river waters. Mud crabs were contaminated by heavy metals that bioaccumulated from their surrounding sediments and water sources. The hierarchy of mean concentrations (mg/kg) of the heavy metals were Pb>As>Cr>Pb>Hg. Heavy metals are carcinogenic for human consumption when exceeded their permissible levels. It is urgent to stop pollution in Sundarbans mangrove zone and led to serve healthy foods for the nations.

Ecological impact of heavy metal pollution on Limnodrilus cervix -abundance, bioaccumulation, and environmental dynamics in a perennial pond of Jammu, India

This study examines the ecological ramifications of heavy metal contamination on benthic invertebrate communities, with a focus on Limnodrilus cervix, in a perennial pond situated in the Raipur region of Jammu, India. The study identified 11,587 individuals of Limnodrilus cervix, showing seasonal variations in abundance. Through a multidisciplinary approach encompassing taxonomic analysis, heavy metal quantification, acute toxicity testing, and bioaccumulation assessments, the research explores the intricate dynamics between pollution and aquatic ecosystems. Findings reveal pronounced seasonal fluctuations in L. cervix populations, with copper emerging as the predominant metal. Acute toxicity tests underscore dose-dependent lead (Pb) toxicity with an LC50 value of 0.03 mg/L, while bioaccumulation experiments elucidate Pb absorption in worm tissue with a bioconcentration factor (BCF) of 0.4 at 0.005 mg/L and 0.7 at 0.01 mg/L. The study underscores the urgent need for informed management strategies to mitigate the ecological risks posed by heavy metal pollution and safeguard freshwater habitats and their inhabitants.

Citizens protein project: A self-funded, transparent, and concerning report on analysis of popular protein supplements sold in the Indian market.

Protein powders, including those containing herbal and dietary supplements such as vitamins, minerals, and other natural or synthetic ingredients, can be associated with hepatotoxicity. Protein supplements are often mislabeled and deceptive in their contents. In this self-funded transparent study, we extensively analyzed popular protein supplements in India to identify potential hepatotoxic substances based on industrial standards. All products underwent extensive analysis, including total protein content, fungal aflatoxin detection, pesticide residue estimation, heavy metal quantification, steroid detection, and complete organic and inorganic profiling, according to industry standards. Most protein supplements did not meet the labeled and advertised protein content, while certain brands surpassed the stated levels, raising concerns about potential "protein/amino-spiking." In addition, the major brands contained detectable fungal toxins and pesticide residues. Furthermore, many major formulations contained harmful heavy metals such as lead and arsenic, and some featured hepatoxic herbal extracts, particularly green tea extract, turmeric, Garcinia cambogia, and Ashwagandha. Indian-made products were inferior to those manufactured by multinational companies. The presence of various potentially toxic compounds, such as cycloheptatriene, benzene derivatives, toluene, and isopropyl alcohol, within a nonstandardized and unregulated diverse ingredient mix added to the overall concern. We demonstrate that the protein-based herbal and dietary supplement industry requires stringent scrutiny, regulation, and basic safety studies before being marketed. Manufacturers must consider reducing "ingredient complexities" of their protein powders to prevent adverse interactions between herbal and nonherbal components in consumers. Manufacturers must avoid using known toxic ingredients to reduce the avoidable disease burden within the public community.

Quantification of Heavy Metals in the Nasal Turbines of Smokers and Nonsmokers.

Cigarette smoke is known to contain toxic heavy metals. In this study, heavy metal levels in the nasal turbinate tissues of smokers and nonsmokers were measured and compared with Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Forty patients who come to the Otorhinolaryngology outpatient clinic due to nasal obstruction and are given an appointment for partial turbinate reduction operation due to inferior turbinate hypertrophy, according to their smoking status, were divided into two groups: those who had smoked one pack/day for at least 10 years and those who had never smoked. The levels of heavy metals (Al, As, Ba, Cd, Cr, Co, Cu, Pb, Mn, Hg, Ni, Se, and Ag) were compared by ICP-MS in nasal turbinate tissues. Al (p = 0.002), Cr (p < 0.001), Co (p < 0.001), Ni (p = 0.001), Cu (p < 0.001), As (p < 0.001), Se (p < 0.001), Ag (p < 0.001), Cd (p = 0.001), Ba (p = 0.008), Hg (p < 0.001), and Pb (p < 0.001) values in the smoker group were found to be significantly higher than the values of nonsmokers. Although the Mn level was high in smokers, no significant difference was observed (p = 0.299). Smoking can cause nasal and sinus problems. In this study, we observed that the smoking group had significantly higher levels of almost all the heavy metals investigated in the nasal turbinate tissues. As smoking damages, the mucociliary system and the mucosa, heavy metals from cigarettes may accumulate further and cause harm to the nasal tissues. 3 Laryngoscope, 134:3562-3567, 2024.

From soil to health hazards: Heavy metals contamination in northern India and health risk assessment

Heavy metals contamination in soil is a global concern affecting the environment with far-reaching consequences for ecosystems and the health of human beings. Heavy metals contamination of soil entails a significant threat to the environment and human health. This research paper focuses on the quantification of heavy metals contamination in soil in Kanpur district, a highly industrialized and densely populated region in India. The study was aimed to identify the sources of heavy metals, map their spatial distribution, and evaluate the potential implications on the environment and human well-being. The prime intent of the current study was quantification of heavy metals in the soil as well as the comparison of risk on the health of human being using two different methods i.e., US EPA methodology for risk assessment and epidemiological study-based risk assessment. Heavy metals like Fe, Ni, Co, Cu, Mn, Cr, and Cd were analyzed in agricultural samples of soil with the help of inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy. On the basis of epidemiological data, the attributable and relative risk came out to be 0.001 and 1.060, respectively. On the basis of the calculation of Cr alone, the values of carcinogenic risk for adults came out to be 3.87 × 10−7 and for children it was 3.01 × 10− 6. In conclusion, this research paper highlights the alarming levels of heavy metals contamination in the soil of Kanpur district, emphasizing the urgent need for remediation and mitigation efforts, thereby guiding policy makers and stakeholders in developing targeted strategies for soil protection and safeguarding human health.

Detection and quantification of heavy metals and minerals in poultry feed collected from selected local markets in Bangladesh.

The study was primarily conducted to assess the stakeholders' knowledge regarding the contamination caused by heavy metals in poultry feedstuffs. The concentration of some heavy metals (lead, chromium, cadmium, and nickel) and macro-minerals (sodium, potassium, and calcium) was also analyzed in poultry feeds collected from selected local markets in Sherpur district, Bangladesh. A well-structured questionnaire survey was used to investigate different stakeholders' perspectives in relation to metal contamination in feed. Heavy metals and calcium were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The flame emission spectrophotometric technique was applied to determine sodium and potassium. The majority of the stakeholders (90%) were found to have no knowledge regarding heavy metal contamination. Lead and nickel concentrations were below the detectable level in the collected samples. The average concentration of chromium in Jhenaigati upazila was four times higher than in Nalitabari upazila, at 21.806 mg kg-1 and 5.452 mg kg-1, respectively. The concentrations of cadmium in both brand and nonbrand samples exceeded the maximum allowable limit set by the European Union at 1.329 mg kg-1 and 1.328 mg kg-1, respectively. Sodium, potassium, and calcium were found in the ranges of 0.0011%-0.0035%, 0.0010%-0.0013%, and 0.0080%-0.0305%, which were extremely low in concentration compared to the minimum requirement in poultry feed. Regular surveillance and governance systems should be incorporated into national policy to cease the hazardous impacts of heavy metals through feed contamination. From a nutritional viewpoint, poultry feeds need to be critically formulated.

Distance-based paper microfluidic devices for rapid visual quantification of heavy metals in herbal supplements and cosmetics.

Distance-based detection (DbD) on paper-based microfluidic analytical devices (μPADs) has emerged as a promising, cost-effective, simple, and instrumentation-free assay method. Broadening the applicability of a new way of immobilization of reagent for DbD on μPADs (DμPADs) is presented, employing an ion exchange (IE) interaction of an anionic metallochromic reagent, 2-(5-bromo-2-pyridylazo)-5-[N-n-propyl-N-(3-sulfopropyl)amino]phenol (5-Br-PAPS), on the anion-exchange filter paper. The IE DμPADs demonstrate superiority over standard cellulose filter paper in terms of the degree of reagent immobilization, detection sensitivity, and clear detection endpoints due to the strong retention of 5-Br-PAPS. The study investigated various parameters influencing DbD, including 5-Br-PAPS concentrations (0.25-1 mM), buffer types (acetic acid-Tris, MES), buffer concentrations (20-500 mM), and auxiliary complexing agents (acetic, formic, and glycolic acids). Subsequently, the performance of 17 metals (Ag+, Cd2+, Co2+, Cr3+, Cu2+, Fe2+, Hg2+, La2+, Mn2+, Ni2+, Pb2+, Ti2+, Zn2+, Al3+, As3+, Fe3+, and V4+) was evaluated, with color formation observed for 12 metals. Additionally, the paper surface was examined using SEM and SEM-EDX to verify the suitability of certain areas in the detection channel for reagent immobilization and metal binding. This method demonstrates quantitation limits of metals in the low μg mL-1 range, showing great potential for the rapid screening of toxic metals commonly found in herbal supplements and cosmetics regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Thus, it holds promise for enhancing safety and regulatory compliance in product quality assessment. Furthermore, this method offers a cost-effective, environmentally sustainable, and user-friendly approach for the rapid visual quantification of heavy metals for in-field analysis, eliminating the need for complex instrumentation.

Optimizing Milk Safety: Applying Nuclear Techniques in X-ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy for Heavy Metal Quantification in Powdered Milk Consumed in Senegal

This study conducted an elemental analysis and assessed heavy metal concentrations in five powdered milk samples (V1, L1, H1, G1, and D1) from Senegal, utilizing X-ray Fluorescence (XRF). The analysis focused on aluminum (Al), calcium (Ca), potassium (K), phosphorus (P), and chlorine (Cl). Aluminum was either undetected or found at negligible levels in all samples. Calcium levels consistently surpassed the Acceptable Maximum Level (AML) in all samples, with H1 exceeding the AML by approximately 11.1 times (27,745.06 ± 310.16 ppm). Potassium concentrations varied, with G1 exhibiting the highest levels, significantly exceeding the AML (51,058.15 ± 456.13 ppm), while V1 remained within acceptable limits. Chlorine concentrations generally complied with the AML, except for G1, which slightly exceeded the limit (3631.04 ± 31.23 ppm). Phosphorus concentrations in H1 were notably higher than the AML (13,750.94 ± 275.35 ppm). The non-uniformity in heavy metal concentrations among samples emphasizes the need for ongoing research and regulatory scrutiny to address potential risks and ensure the safety of powdered milk.

Acute Oral Chromium Exposure Resulting in Ulcerative Gastritis and Perforated Ulcers in Swine.

Heavy metal poisoning poses a challenge in diagnostic practices and environmental safety. This study describes the epidemiological, clinical, and pathological aspects of a chromium (Cr) poisoning outbreak in growing/finishing pigs housed in pens with bedding of pine wood shavings containing Cr. A visit to the affected farm was conducted. Epidemiological data were collected, and necropsy and histopathological examinations and heavy metal quantifications were performed. Up to 30% of the animals from the affected pens displayed clinical signs 48 h after housing, characterized by apathy, rigid gait, distended abdomen, pain to abdominal palpation, fever, vomiting, and skin cyanosis. The lethality rate reached 76.6%. Main postmortem findings consisted of ulcerative gastritis with perforation of the glandular stomach in all necropsied swine. Heavy metal analysis revealed a higher concentration of Cr in the bedding of the affected pens, along with elevated levels of Cr in the livers of the affected swine. Given that Cr is a known cause of poisoning in humans (with acute oral exposure resulting in corrosive lesions in the gastrointestinal tract), this study marks the first diagnosis of acute oral natural Cr poisoning in animals. This diagnosis was established through the association of epidemiological, pathological, and heavy metal quantification data.

Heavy metal quantification in chicken meat and egg: An emerging food safety concern

Heavy metal contamination in widely consumed foods is a significant safety concern. This study aimed to determine heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Cr, and Mn) in different parts of chicken meats (variety: Poultry and Sonali) and eggs (n = 180) collected from different local markets of Dhaka, Bangladesh. The analysis of heavy metals was carried out using atomic absorption spectroscopy. Alarmingly, 75% of the poultry bone and 60% of the egg albumens and yolks exceeded the maximum allowable concentration (MAC) of Pb set by the Codex Alimentarius. Moreover, 40% of the poultry bone and 89% of the egg samples surpassed the MAC of Cd. The estimated daily intake (EDI) values for Pb and Cd exceeded the respective provisional tolerable daily intake (PTDI) levels. The incremental lifetime cancer risks (ILCR) of Pb and Cd in the detected samples exceeded the threshold risk limit (ILCR>10−4) for adult and child consumers, indicating carcinogenic health risks. The hazard index (HI) values of poultry bone for adults (4.1) and children (7.8) exceeded the benchmark (HI=1), indicating non-carcinogenic health effects. This study might help policymakers and regulatory authorities identify non-compliance and apply control measures to produce safe meat and eggs for safeguarding public health.

A green and simplified approach for the quantitative and sensitive analysis of heavy metal ions in sea and stream waters

Abstract Elimination of the matrix effect is a major challenge in developing a method for the quantification of heavy metals (HMs) in water samples. In this regard, the current research describes the simultaneous analyses of Cu(II), Cd(II), and Ni(II) ions in water matrices through flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry (FAAS) after preconcentration with carrier element-free co-precipitation (CEFC) technique by the help of an organic co-precipitant, 3-{[5-(4-Chlorobenzyl)-3-(4-chlorophenyl)-1H-1,2,4-triazol-1-yl]-methyl}-4-[2,4-(dichlorobenzylidene)amino]-1H-1,2,4-triazole-5(4H)-thione (CCMBATT). Based on our literature research, CCMBATT was employed for the first time in this study as an organic co-precipitant for the preconcentration of HMs. Factors such as solution pH, concentration of co-precipitant, sample volume, standing time, centrifugation rate, and time were thoroughly examined and optimized to achieve the highest efficiency in terms of HM recovery. The limits of detection (LODs) (with 10 number of tests) of 0.54, 0.34, and 1.95 μg L−1 and the relative standard deviations (RSD %) of 2.1, 3.3, and 3.0 were determined for Cu(II), Cd(II) and Ni(II) ions, respectively. Recovery results of HMs for the spiked samples were in the range of 92.8–101.0%, demonstrating the trueness of the method and its applicability to the water samples matrix.

Traceability challenges and heavy metal risks in commercial shrimp and prawn

Mislabelling in the global fisheries sector raises concerns about the identity, safety, and sustainability of seafood products. It puts human health at risk when substitute species are contaminated with heavy metals that may cause chronic diseases and cancer. The aim of this work was to analyse mislabelling in shrimps and prawns sold in the Spanish market and possible risks of heavy metal ingestion. Analysis of labels, DNA barcoding for species identification and quantification of heavy metals were performed on 100 market samples, and health risk was calculated from standard indices. More than one half of individuals did not comply with European regulations about labels, principally for the absence of mandatory elements in the label. One third of the analysed shrimps were substitute species (not mentioned on the label), and a 10% did not comply with the legal European limits for heavy metals. The prawns Penaeus indicus and Penaeus latisulcatus from West Indian and Central/East Atlantic waters exhibited the highest heavy metals concentrations. Indices calculated for these two species, and for Pandalus borealis and Parapenaeus longirostris, suggest health risks if consumed daily. If those or other species from these polluted areas were employed as substitutes, mislabelling would encompass health risk.

Quantification of Heavy Metals and Chemical Stressors in Ground Water of Coal Mining Areas and Associated Human Health Risk

Acid mine drainage is one of the most obvious challenges in coal mining areas that is responsible for deteriorating soil and ground water quality of nearby communities thus posing serious human health risk. Objective: To quantify of heavy metals and chemical stressors in ground water and associated human health risk. Methods: Cross-sectional study with a combination of random sampling and Probability-Proportional-to-Size Sampling was used. Eight different sites were selected for water sample collection, and heavy metals were quantified. The analysis was carried out. Physicochemical properties of water were assessed using a portable photometer. Hematological parameters and antioxidants in the blood of study subjects were also measured. Results: Among the water samples, site S1 had the highest iron concentration at 0.354 ppm, exceeding the US limit of 0.3 ppm, with nickel being the next most abundant metal. Site S8 recorded the highest temperature at 36.4°C, while site S5 had the highest pH in the drinking water. The maximum electrical conductivity was found at S4 with 1387 s/m, and the total dissolved solvent parameter peaked at 1598 ppm in S8. Subjects exposed to acid mine drainage through water consumption displayed significant changes in antioxidant and blood parameters compared to the control group. In the exposed group, catalase (63.47), superoxide dismutase (33.26), and glutathione peroxidase (532.97) levels decreased, while malondialdehyde levels increased to 1.39. Conclusions: The physical and chemical properties of all water resources of mining areas were negatively altered due to heavy metals contamination thus poses a serious threat of oxidative stress in exposed subjects.

Assessment and quantification of heavy metals in cultivated soils in Kafin Hausa Jigawa State Nigeria using Nigerian research reactor‐1

AbstractAnthropogenic activities that cause heavy metal contamination of agricultural soils pose a significant health risk to humans who consume contaminated agricultural foods such as rice and vegetables. The purpose of this study was to access the level of heavy metal contamination in agricultural soils in Kafin Hausa by analyzing soil samples from five different sampling sites for heavy metals including aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), vanadium (V), manganese (Mn), chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), cobalt (Co), and zinc (Zn). A total of 15 soil samples were collected using a soil auger from various locations within Kafin Hausa area, and the concentrations of the collected soil samples were estimated using the Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis (INAA) technique via the Nigeria Research Reactor‐1. The results of the study showed that the mean concentrations of these heavy metals in the sampled soils were within the limits set by the World Health Organization. In addition, pollution indexes such as enrichment factor (EF), contamination factor (CF), and geo‐accumulation index (Igeo) were adequately determined. The sampling sites were identified to have significant enrichment, except for BR3 which was moderately enriched with Al and Ti, followed by Fe, and had an EF value of 4.87. Mean Igeo values indicated that all the sampling sites were uncontaminated. Furthermore, multivariate statistics revealed a strong positive correlation (p &lt; 0.01) and (p &lt; 0.05) among the investigated metals, suggesting that the major sources of those metals are similar.

Quantification of heavy metals and mercury-resistant bacteria in artisanal and small-scale gold mining sites, Maniema region, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Quantification of heavy metals and mercury-resistant bacteria in artisanal and small-scale gold mining sites, Maniema region, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Recent advances in instrumental techniques for heavy metal quantification

Heavy metals (HMs) are ubiquitous; they are found in soil, water, air, and all biological matrices. The toxicity, bioaccumulation potential, and deleterious effects of most of these metals on humans and the environment have been widely documented. Consequently, the detection and quantification of HMs in various environmental samples have become a pressing issue. The analysis of the concentrations of HMs is a vital component of environmental monitoring; hence, the selection of the most suitable analytical technique for their determination has become a topic of great interest in food, environment, and human health safety. Analytical techniques for the quantification of these metals have evolved. Presently, a broad range of HM analytical techniques are available with each having its outstanding merits as well as limitations. Most analytical scientists, therefore, adopt complementation of more than one method, with the choice influenced by the specific metal of interest, desired limits of detection and quantification, nature of the interference, level of sensitivity, and precision among others. Sequel to the above, this work comprehensively reviews the most recent advances in instrumental techniques for the determination of HMs. It gives a general overview of the concept of HMs, their sources, and why their accurate quantification is pertinent. It highlights various conventional and more advanced techniques for HM determination, and as one of its kind, it also gives special attention to the specific merits and demerits of the analytical techniques. Finally, it presents the most recent studies in this regard.

What about the Arsenic? Health Risk Assessment in Canned Tuna Commercialized in Northern Spain

The incorrect labeling, as well as the bioaccumulation of heavy metals in seafood, represent a recurring problem worldwide, not only for natural resources but also for the consumers’ health. Heavy metals can be accumulated through the food chain and transferred to the final human consumer. Despite its toxicology, arsenic does not have a concentration limit on food, unlike other heavy metals like cadmium, mercury, and lead. Tuna species, with a worldwide distribution and high per capita consumption, represent a well-known toxicological issue caused by heavy metals. In this context, 80 samples of canned tuna were analyzed to check if the information contained in the label was correct and complete. Genetic identification was made by sequencing a fragment of 16S rDNA from 80 samples. For the heavy metal quantification, only those samples with the complete FAO fishing area information on the label were analyzed. Only 29 out of 80 samples presented enough information on the labels for the analysis. Some of the canned tuna commercialized in Spanish markets surpassed the safety standard levels established by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Activities (JECFA) under the consumption rates of 300 g and 482 g per week. However, the carcinogenic risk (CRlim) for arsenic in all cans and all scenarios was higher than the safety levels.