Heavy Metal Contamination Risk Analysis of Dried Fish: Carcinogenic and Non-Carcinogenic Threats to Bangladeshi Consumers

This study aimed to assess the concentration of heavy metals in commonly consumed dried fish from Noakhali and evaluate the associated health risks. A total of 15 species of dried fish were collected from local markets, and heavy metal concentrations of cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), lead (Pb), nickel (Ni), and iron (Fe) were analyzed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), and carcinogenic risk (CR) calculations were calculated to measure health risk. The mean range of Cd, Cr, Pb, Fe and Ni in fishes were 0.47–9.24, 2.15–61.81, 0.76–4.19, 2.09–32.65 and 35.5-429.5 respectively. The mean concentration of Cr and Pb exceeded the recommended value set by FAO/WHO in dried fishes. Health risks of metals were assessed in terms of estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), and carcinogenic risk (CR). EDI values of all fishes were less than the maximum tolerable daily intake indicating no adverse health effects. The mean THQ value for non-carcinogenic risk were < 1 (0.0086–0.667) indicated no health risk for these fishes, whereas, the total THQ value > 1 indicated a potential health risk for all metals. CR values for Cr (8.26E-06 to 2.04E-04), Cd (9.78E-06 to 3.49E-04) and Pb (8.12E-07 to 4.99E-06) imposed some potential health for consumption. From the findings we advised to the regularity agencies to conduct regular monitoring of heavy metals in commercially available dried fish due to its historical and cultural significance and to reduce potential health risks.