Seafood is a popular and nutritious choice in the diets of many, but it may also carry hidden risks posed by heavy metals, such as cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), and mercury (Hg). A thorough study conducted by Luisa Garofalo, Marcello Sala, Claudia Focardi, Patrizio Pasqualetti, and other researchers has uncovered troubling concentrations of these toxic elements in seafood and fish available in Italy.
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A decade-long study examined 5,854 fish and seafood samples imported, tested, and processed in food distribution and production centers across Italian regions. Using advanced techniques, researchers broke down the food samples and measured even trace amounts of heavy metals.
Key findings:
Cadmium (Cd): Cephalopods, especially squid and cuttlefish, showed the highest levels of cadmium, with 17 samples exceeding EU safety limits.
Lead (Pb): Lead contamination was generally low, but one bivalve sample from Italy surpassed the permissible limits.
Mercury (Hg): Swordfish, sharks, and tuna had the highest mercury concentrations, with 11.3% of swordfish samples exceeding legal safety thresholds.
The EU sets varying limits for these metals depending on the species and mandates regular testing at import points, fish markets, and processing facilities to protect public health. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) also conducts risk assessments to ensure these limits remain effective.
Heavy metals accumulate in organs like the liver, kidneys, and brain, potentially causing long-term health issues. Researchers recommend that consumers exercise caution when eating species like swordfish, sharks, and tuna, which have the highest mercury levels. Safer alternatives include red mullet, plaice, mackerel, salmon, sea bream, and sea bass, which have significantly lower mercury concentrations.
The study also highlights the need for further evaluations of other food sources, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and pregnant women. Mercury in fetal blood can be up to 1.7 times higher than in maternal blood, potentially leading to developmental issues.
Beyond choosing safer seafood, the study advocates for dietary diversification, improved seafood traceability, and enhanced consumer education. It also recommends considering other dietary sources of heavy metals, such as chocolate and cereal products, when assessing overall exposure.
More information about the study: