Consumer risks and benefits: Macro and trace elements in muscle of dominant fish species from Vrana Lake, Croatia

Although fish muscles are a valuable source of protein and essential nutrients necessary for a balanced diet, the presence of environmental contaminants in fish tissue may present potential health risks. This study evaluated the nutritional benefits and health risks associated with consuming fish from Vrana Lake, Croatia, focusing on the inorganic elements in fish meat. It also examined inter-species differences and the influence of biometric parameters on element levels. Eighteen elements were analysed in the muscle tissue of three fish species using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Metal(loid) concentrations in fish muscle were partially influenced by eating habits, size, age, and condition index of species. Despite these variations, element concentrations aligned with levels typical of low-contaminated freshwater systems. The concentrations of Cd (0.024–3.15 μg/kg w.m.), Hg (11.3–179 μg/kg w.m.), and Pb (0.303–28.8 μg/kg w.m.) were significantly lower than the European regulatory limits for these toxic elements in food (0.05, 0.3, and 0.3 mg/kg w.m. for Cd, Hg and Pb, respectively). All species had Se:Hg molar ratios above one (range: 2.4–66.1; median: 17.1–22.7) and selenium health benefit values (HBV Se ) above zero (range: 1.13–12.3; median: 2.62–3.44), providing evidence of Se’s protective role against Hg toxicity in the analysed fish species within the monitored ecosystem. Analysis of health risks and benefits indicated that consumption of one, three, and four weekly servings of carp, Prussian carp, and rudd, respectively, provides a valuable source of essential elements for adults without exceeding safety thresholds for toxic elements. A risk assessment confirmed that both cumulative non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks associated with fish consumption were within safe limits (HI < 1.0; CCR < 10 −4 ) for adults. Overall, these findings indicate that inorganic contaminant levels in fish from Vrana Lake are low and do not pose health risks, making these fish a safe and nutritious dietary choice. • First report on metal(loid) concentrations in muscle of fish from Vrana Lake. • Novel data on Se:Hg molar ratio and HBV Se value in Croatian freshwater fish. • All fish samples complied with food regulatory standards. • 1–4 fish meals/week provide essential elements without exceeding toxicity thresholds. • Cumulative non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks were within acceptable limits.