Risk characterization for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and toxic metals associated with fish consumption

Concentrations of 11 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and toxic metals (Hg, Cd and Pb) were measured in three fish species [(Raja miraletus (brown ray), Lepidorhombus whiffiagonis (megrim) and Lophius piscatorius (angler)] from Mediterranean Sea (Adriatic Sea). No significant difference in PAHs and metal concentrations was encountered among the fish species examined. Total PAH concentrations ranged from 209.9 ng g−1 wet weight to 227.2 ng g−1 wet weight. Low-molecular weight (two and three rings) PAHs were observed dominating over the high molecular weight (from four to six rings) PAHs. With regard to metals, Hg exhibited the highest concentrations (0.68–0.98 μg g−1 weight wet), followed by Pb (0.08–0.12 μg g−1 weight wet) and Cd (0.05–0.10 μg g−1 weight wet). The health risks by consumption of these species were assessed and did not present threat to public health concerning PAH, Pb and Cd intakes. However, the estimated exposure from Hg illustrates the importance of limiting the dietary consumption of larger-sized fish.