The levels of trace elements (As, Hg, Cr, Cd, Pb, Co, Ni, Cu, Mn and Zn) in commercially important fish species sampled from fish markets of Adelaide, Australia; canned fish from South Australian supermarkets; and fish markets of West Bengal, India were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) after microwave digestion. Mercury was determined by using triple quadrupole ICP-MS. The accuracy of the methods was assessed with a certified standard reference material (NRCC-DORM-3 dogfish protein), and the results were compared with values reported in the literature. The results indicated considerable variations in the accumulation of trace elements among the fish species. The relationship between species with respect to trace element concentrations was examined using cluster analysis, which showed Indian fish species forming distinct groups from the others. Other than As in sardines, whiting and snapper and Hg in swordfish and snapper, the trace element concentrations were within permissible limits recommended by various standards. Based on the estimated daily intake (EDI), fish samples analysed in this study can be considered safe for human consumption as per the recommended daily dietary allowance limit fixed by various agencies. Continuous monitoring and assessments of fish metal(loid) content are needed to generate more data and safeguard human health.
Keywords: Estimated daily intake; Fish; Human health; Principal component analysis; Trace elements.