In this study, the levels of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) have been determined in the flesh of two species of fish, sardine (Sardina pilchardus) and swordfish (Xiphias gladius) fished in the Algerian coast. Quantification of As, Cd and Pb was carried out using an ICP-MS method and the results were compared with the thresholds set by national and international regulatory bodies. In a further step, the risk to consumers was assessed using estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ) and hazard index (HI).The average concentration of As and Pb was higher in sardine (1.82; 0.10 mg kg-1 w.w., respectively), than in swordfish (1.10 mg kg-1 w.w.; not determined), whereas the concentration recorded for Cd was the same for both species (0.01 mg kg-1 w.w.). These concentrations are below maximum limits set in regulations. The THQs and HI were widely below 1. The consumption of these fish does not pose risk to the consumers.
Keywords: Sardine; hazard index; heavy metals; risk; swordfish; target hazard quotient.