Potential effects of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in marine foods on human health: a critical review

Marine pollution particularly oil pollution is a major threat to human and environmental health. Commercial species being suitable for consumption of marine environment such as fish, mollusks, invertebrates, etc. are demanded by consumers all around the world. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are one of the most widespread organic environmental pollutants that pose a potential risk to human health via marine biota. Toxic, carcinogenic and mutagenic properties of PAHs are studied in several researches. This paper reviews thoroughly the sources, potential risks and harmful health effects of PAHs in marine food according to the findings of published research studies.