Health risk assessment of heavy metals in marine fish caught from the northwest Persian Gulf

Abstract Due to the presence of metalloids and toxic metals such as cadmium, lead, copper, and zinc in fish tissue, it may endanger health considering the countless benefits of consuming fish, which can harm the human body if consumed in toxic amounts. Therefore, it is vital to monitor the concentration of metals in fish meat to ensure compliance with food safety regulations and, protect the consumer. We considered the levels of Ni, Zn, Cu, Pb, and Cd in 60 marine fish samples (3 species) collected from coastal areas of the northwestern coast of the Persian Gulf and estimated their health risk. Mean concentrations of Ni, Zn, Cu, Pb, and Cd were 1.88±0.07, 27.16±8.11, 11.55±4.12, 14±0.06, and 0.19 ± 0.03 µg/g wet weight. Estimated average daily intakes (EDIs) for adults and children of Ni, Zn, Cu, Pb, and Cd were 0.89-4.15, 12.89-60.02, 5.47-25.53, 0.54-2,51 and 0.09-0.42 μg/kg bw/day. Considering that there are different levels of certain elements in marine fish in the Persian Gulf, this study provides suggestions for risk management and a scientific basis for food safety assessment.