A comparative farm-to-fork risk assessment of trace elements in farmed gilthead seabream based on consumer-specific exposure profiles

This study evaluated cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and selenium (Se) levels in farmed gilthead seabream ( Sparus aurata ) from four aquaculture farms in Türkiye. Dietary exposure was assessed for Turkish, Italian, and average EU consumers using national consumption data. Trace element concentrations ranged from 0.017–0.048 mg/kg for Hg, 0.032–0.076 mg/kg for Pb, 0.007–0.012 mg/kg for Cd, and averaged 0.218 mg/kg for Se, all below EU maximum permissible limits. Non-carcinogenic risks were low, with Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) values between 0.05 and 0.53 and Pb Margin of Exposure (MOE) values consistently above 10. Carcinogenic risk also remained minimal (TR = 5.48×10⁻⁸ to 2.01×10⁻⁷), below the acceptable threshold (1.0×10⁻⁴). The Maximum Monthly Consumption Limit (CRmm) for Pb indicated that seabream from three of the sampled aquaculture farms should not exceed eight meals per month to avoid long-term effects. Italian consumers showed the highest exposure due to higher seafood intake, though still within safe levels. These findings underscore the importance of using country-specific dietary data in seafood risk assessments. Promoting consumption of a wider variety of seafood species and maintaining continuous monitoring of aquaculture environments are essential for ensuring food safety and supporting sustainable international seafood trade. • Country-based trace element exposure from farmed Sparus aurata remained below maximum regulatory limits. • Target Hazard Quotient and Provisional Tolerable Weekly Intake values indicated no significant non-carcinogenic risk. • Lead-related Target Cancer Risk values were far below the cancer risk threshold of 1.0×10⁻⁴. • Margin of Exposure values for lead exposure indicated no concern for non-carcinogenic effects. • Max 8 meals/month advised from certain farms to avoid chronic lead accumulation.