Toxic Metals and Omega-3 Fatty Acids of Bluefin Tuna from Aquaculture: Health Risk and Benefits

Abstract

The share of Bluefin Tuna (BFT) has gained in importance in world fishing and trade for the last 50 years. Particularly in the Mediterranean region, this capture-based aquaculture (farming and fattening) activity has reached an important potential. This study examined the effects of toxic metals and omega-3 fatty acids from BFT fish captured in the Mediterranean Sea and cultured in the Aegean Sea on human health. The results of the current research revealed that the different groups of BFT (medium and large) fishes in general were rich in omega-3 fatty acids (especially from EPA and DHA) and hypocholesterolemic/Hypercholesterolemic potential (h/H) is higher than 3. The consumption of BFT products will reduce the cardiovascular risks. However, due to THQ (≥ 1), it has been found that mercury may cause serious health problems to the community in the long term.