Human health risk of cadmium, selenium, and tin concentrations in canned fish from selected markets in Edo State, Nigeria

The surge in human exposure to heavy metals, driven by their widespread industrial use, demands a thorough examination of their toxicity. This study focuses on heavy metal contamination in canned fish sold in Benin City, with an emphasis on Atlantic bluefin tuna, Atlantic mackerel, and European pilchard. Six brands of canned fish were purchased from selected markets in Benin City, Nigeria, and the heavy metal levels were assessed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS) instrumentation. The results revealed notable disparities in copper (Cu), selenium (Se), and tin (Sn) concentrations. Fish brand C (sardine) showed the highest levels of Cu (9.95 ± 2.12 mg/kg), Se (0.54 ± 0.05 mg/kg), and Sn (0.63 ± 0.05 mg/kg) concentrations among all the canned fish brands. Daily Metal Intake (DMI) for adults and children consuming canned fish highlighted fish brand C having the highest values. Health Risk Index (HRI) calculations revealed potential health risks, particularly for children, surpassing recommended levels in Cu, Se, and Sn. This study underscores the need for vigilant monitoring of heavy metal content in canned fish to safeguard consumer health, stressing adherence to safety standards set by approved organizations. These findings advance our understanding of food safety and public health, particularly in canned fish consumption, emphasizing the necessity for robust food safety regulations in Nigeria