Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Journal of Food Composition and Analysis, cilt.150, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
This study evaluated cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and selenium (Se) levels in farmed gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) from four aquaculture farms in Türkiye. Dietary exposure was assessed for Turkish, Italian, and average EU consumers using national consumption data. Trace element concentrations ranged from 0.017–0.048 mg/kg for Hg, 0.032–0.076 mg/kg for Pb, 0.007–0.012 mg/kg for Cd, and averaged 0.218 mg/kg for Se, all below EU maximum permissible limits. Non-carcinogenic risks were low, with Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) values between 0.05 and 0.53 and Pb Margin of Exposure (MOE) values consistently above 10. Carcinogenic risk also remained minimal (TR = 5.48 × 10⁻⁸ to 2.01 × 10⁻⁷), below the acceptable threshold (1.0 × 10⁻⁴). The Maximum Monthly Consumption Limit (CRmm) for Pb indicated that seabream from three of the sampled aquaculture farms should not exceed eight meals per month to avoid long-term effects. Italian consumers showed the highest exposure due to higher seafood intake, though still within safe levels. These findings underscore the importance of using country-specific dietary data in seafood risk assessments. Promoting consumption of a wider variety of seafood species and maintaining continuous monitoring of aquaculture environments are essential for ensuring food safety and supporting sustainable international seafood trade.