Occurrence and health risk assessment of residual heavy metals in the Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis)

The Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir Sinensis) is a popular aquatic product in China. However, these crabs accumulate heavy metals from the ecosystem. The occurrence, source, and risk assessment of heavy metals in crabs from the main production area in China were investigated. The abundance of the metals in crabs was Mn >> As > Se > Ni > Cr > Cd > Pb> Hg. Each metal was present at a level less than the national standard (A standard for the limits of contaminants in food from China). Agricultural activities, industrial discharges, and urban sewage were the three main sources of heavy metals accumulation in Chinese mitten crab. Based on an assessment of the target hazard quotient (THQ), arsenic is the most harmful heavy metal in the crabs. In addition, mercury and lead also pose risks. The results indicate that the estimated daily intake (EDI) of mitten crabs in China would not pose a high dietary risk. (THQ < 1). The brown crab meat of females has a higher dietary risk than comparable tissues in males.

Automated summary

The study found that the main sources of heavy metals in Chinese mitten crabs are agricultural activities, industrial discharges, and urban sewage. Although harmful heavy metals such as arsenic, mercury, and lead are present in the crabs, their intake levels are below national standards, leading to a low dietary risk for consumers.