Contamination of red sea shrimp (Palaemon serratus) with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons: A health risk assessment study

Abstract

The aquatic environment of the Red Sea is facing many threats resulting from land-based activities. The aim of the present study was to measure the concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Red Sea shrimp and to assess the health risk resulting from their consumption. Gas chromatography/flame ionization detection was used for PAH detection. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons exceeded the maximum residue levels authorized in crustaceans. They were found to be of pyrogenic source, and their total toxicity equivalent concentration was 0.03078 μg g-1. Assessment of cancer risk resulting from consumption of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarboncontaminated shrimp proved that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency risk goal of 10-6 has been exceeded. Continuous monitoring programs for air, water, and sediment quality are therefore recommended.