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Updated: Jun 12, 2026
10:20
Quantification of Heavy Metals and Other Inorganic Contaminants on the Productivity of Microalgae
Published on: July 10, 2015
Farmed and Wild Macroalgae as a Safe Source of Macro and Trace Elements
Tomás Chainho1, Rui Cereja1,2, Alícia Pereira3
1IPMA, I.P.-Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere, I. P., Avenida Doutor Alfredo Magalhães Ramalho, nº 6, 1495-165 Algés, Portugal.
Biology
|June 11, 2026
Summary
Macroalgae from the Portuguese coast are a safe source of essential elements. Analysis confirmed no harmful toxins, ensuring consumer health benefits from these marine resources.
Area of Science:
- Marine Biology
- Food Science
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Macroalgae products are gaining popularity as dietary sources of essential macro and microelements.
- Assessing the elemental composition and potential biotoxin presence is crucial for consumer safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the elemental composition of wild and farmed macroalgae from the Portuguese coast.
- To assess the presence of biotoxins in macroalgae to identify potential health risks.
Main Methods:
- Macroalgae samples were collected from three Portuguese coastal sites (2024-2025).
- Elemental composition was determined using micro-XRF spectrometry after freeze-drying and compression.
- Samples were screened for regulated marine toxins and specific non-regulated toxins.
Main Results:
- Macroalgae species significantly influenced elemental composition (explaining >80% variation).
- Seasonal variations impacted redox-sensitive elements like copper and manganese.
- Iron and manganese levels occasionally exceeded recommended daily intake limits, but all elements were deemed safe.
- No regulated marine toxins were detected; only trace amounts of SPX1 were found in *Fucus vesiculosus*.
Conclusions:
- Macroalgae from the Portuguese coast are safe for human consumption regarding elemental content and biotoxins.
- Species is the primary determinant of elemental composition, not origin.
- Further research may be needed on non-regulated toxins if consumption levels increase.
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