What is it about?
This study assesses the health risks from trace metals (like lead, arsenic, aluminum, and mercury) in imported canned tuna and sardines sold in Egypt. It measured metal levels in the fish, the packing liquid (oil/brine), and the leaching from empty cans into acetic acid (simulating metal release from packaging).
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Why is it important?
Health risk identified: The average daily intake of arsenic exceeded WHO safety limits. The hazard index (HI) was >1 for all samples, meaning regular consumption may pose a non-carcinogenic health risk, with arsenic being the main contributor (96% of the risk). Safety limit exceedances: 32% of tuna samples exceeded the EU lead limit; one tuna sample exceeded Finland's arsenic limit. Packaging concerns: Significant leaching of iron and aluminum from cans was found, though lead leaching was minimal (suggesting lead solder phase-out is effective).
Perspectives
The study emphasizes the need for: Continuous monitoring of trace metals in imported canned seafood. Broader relevance – since Egypt imports from Thailand, Vietnam, Italy, and Morocco, the findings are directly useful for all countries that import tuna from these nations. Potential regulatory updates – especially for arsenic, for which current limits may need reconsideration.
Prof. Ahmed A. ElKady
National Research Centre
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Health risks of trace element concentrations in commercial fish gathered from Greater Cairo fish markets, Egypt, Journal of Food Composition and Analysis, May 2025, Elsevier,
DOI: 10.1016/j.jfca.2025.107320.
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