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Updated: Oct 15, 2025
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Quantification of Heavy Metals and Other Inorganic Contaminants on the Productivity of Microalgae
Published on: July 10, 2015
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Elemental Composition of Algae-Based Supplements by Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence
Fernando H Reboredo1, Walter Junior1, Maria F Pessoa1
1GeoBioTec, Departamento de Ciências da Terra, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campus da Caparica, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal.
Plants (Basel, Switzerland)
|October 23, 2021
Summary
Algae supplements can contain high levels of iodine and toxic heavy metals like lead and arsenic. Consumers should be cautious due to potential health risks and lack of regulation.
Area of Science:
- Food Science
- Analytical Chemistry
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Algae-based supplements are popular for their nutritional value.
- Concerns exist regarding the safety and elemental composition of these products.
- Portuguese market algae supplements require thorough safety evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the elemental composition of 15 algae-based supplements.
- To assess potential health risks associated with heavy metal content.
- To evaluate iodine levels in relation to recommended daily intake.
Main Methods:
- Energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) was used for elemental analysis.
- Fifteen algae-based supplements from the Portuguese market were analyzed.
- Quantification of elements including iodine, lead, and arsenic.
Main Results:
- Most Kelp samples had high iodine levels, potentially exceeding safe limits and risking thyroid dysfunction.
- Lead was detected in Sea spaghetti, Arame, Hijiki, and Wakame, posing a public health risk.
- Arsenic levels varied significantly, with Arame, KelpJ, and Hijiki exceeding 60 μg/g, including inorganic forms in Hijiki.
Conclusions:
- Algae supplements can pose health risks due to excessive iodine and toxic heavy metals (lead, arsenic).
- The presence of inorganic arsenic in some algae, like Hijiki, is a significant concern.
- Lack of stringent regulation necessitates consumer caution against indiscriminate use of algae supplements.
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