Metal(oid) bioaccumulation, Se[sbnd]Hg balance, and human health risk assessment in anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus) from the southern Black Sea

Abstract

The European anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus) is the widely caught fish species in Türkiye, both in terms of catch volume and widespread consumption. It holds significant economic and cultural value, particularly in the Black Sea region, where it is a staple in local diets. This study aimed to assess toxic element contamination in anchovies and evaluate potential human health risks. Metal(oid) levels were analyzed in samples collected monthly over a one-year period from the southeastern Black Sea. Although concentrations varied monthly, they remained below national and international safety limits. Seasonal variations in the concentration of 15 metal(oid)s were statistically insignificant. Health risk assessments, including estimated weekly intake (EWI), target hazard quotients (THQ), and hazard index (HI), revealed no adverse effects from regular consumption. The study also noted low mercury (Hg) levels, with a selenium (Se) to mercury molar ratio above 1 during all seasons, suggesting that selenium may mitigate the toxic effects of mercury. Thus, consuming anchovies presents a favorable risk/benefit balance for health. Carcinogenic risk index (CRI) values for arsenic (As), lead (Pb), and chromium (Cr) were within acceptable thresholds. These results demonstrate that anchovies from the region are safe to eat and pose no significant health risk. Importantly, this is the first study to investigate monthly and seasonal variations in metal levels in European anchovies from the Black Sea. The findings contribute valuable data for public health assessments and support the need for continued monitoring to address environmental changes and maintain seafood safety.