Trace element content and health risk assessment of main aquaculture products in Northeast China

This study used ICP-MS (inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry) to analyze 22 trace elements’ safety and content of main freshwater aquaculture products in Northeast China, comparing aquaculture products from other regions. Exposure and noncarcinogenic risk assessments were employed for dietary and health evaluations. Results showed that As (arsenic), Pb (lead), and Cd (cadmium) levels in Cyprinus carpio and Carassius auratus muscles exceeded safety standards, with concentrations of As 0.127–0.281, Pb 0.669–1.147, and Cd 0.101–0.693 mg∙kg-1. Ctenopharyngodon idella which also had a higher standard of Cd levels (0.107–0.190 mg•kg-1) posed no significant health risks (target hazard quotient [THQ] < 1). Significant differences at the 95% level were observed in some trace elements compared to marine fish. Excessive crab and shrimp consumption may pose a potential carcinogenic risk due to Cu (copper). Overall, northeastern fish consumption presents no significant health risks, with Ctenopharyngodon idella deemed the safest.