Elemental Contamination in Brown Mussels (Perna perna) Marketed in Southeastern Brazil

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Marine Biology
• Food Safety

Background:

• Perna perna mussels are vital bioindicators on the Brazilian coast.
• These mussels are a significant food source for coastal communities.
• Guanabara Bay is a heavily impacted estuarine environment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess elemental contamination in commercially sold Perna perna mussels.
• To evaluate human consumption risks associated with these contaminants.
• To compare contaminant levels with Brazilian and international regulations.

Main Methods:

• Elemental concentrations (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Se, V, Zn) were measured in adductor muscle tissue.
• Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was utilized for analysis.
• Mussel samples were sourced from commercial markets in Guanabara Bay.

Main Results:

• All mussel samples exceeded the Brazilian limit for chromium (Cr).
• Twelve samples surpassed the Brazilian limit for selenium (Se).
• Arsenic (As) and zinc (Zn) levels exceeded limits set by international agencies (China, New Zealand, USA).

Conclusions:

• Continuous monitoring of metals and metalloids in Guanabara Bay bivalves is crucial.
• Anthropogenic activities are altering metal transport and bioavailability in this estuary.
• While estimated daily intake was within FAO/WHO limits, further assessment considering the whole organism is warranted.