Abstract:

Objective: The purpose of this research was to determine the lead, cadmium, aluminum and arsenic levels of 66 canned fish with different contents sold in Ankara market and over the internet. As well as, within the scope of the research, fat, moisture and pH levels of canned fish were analyzed and their relations with heavy metal contents were examined. Materials and Methods: Fat, moisture and pH analyzes were performed in all samples. In addition, heavy metal (lead, cadmium, aluminum and arsenic) contents were also analyzed with the ICP-MS method. Results: According to the results of the study, the highest lead level of the samples was determined in canned tuna with sauce-oil (0.13±0.13 mg/kg), cadmium level in plain-lean tuna (6.64±4.68 µg/kg), aluminum level in canned mackerel with sauce-oil (2.49±1.24 mg/kg), and arsenic level in canned sardines with sauce-oil (3.02±0.03 mg/kg). The aluminum level of the samples with sauce was higher than the plain samples (p<0,001). It was determined that the arsenic level of the oily samples was higher than the non-oily samples (p<0,001). Conclusion: According to the research, heavy metal concentrations of canned fish vary according to the type of fish, sauce and oil conditions. As a result of the analysis, the heavy metals contained in canned fish are below the legal limits. Therefore, heavy metal exposures of individuals are in the safe range. However, there is a need for further research on heavy metal exposures due to dietary and non-dietary factors in individuals in different age groups.

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