Assessment of Mercury Levels in Fresh Tuna (Thunnus spp.) Caught from the Coast of Tripoli: Implications for Food Safety and Public Health
Keywords:
Mercury, Bluefin Tuna, Bioaccumulation, Food Safety, Libyan CoastAbstract
In this study, 15 samples of bluefin tuna were collected from three major fish markets in Tripoli: Bab Al-Bahr, Souq Al-Jum’a, and Tajoura, with five samples from each location, in order to assess mercury levels in the commonly consumed fish. These locations were selected due to their proximity to the Libyan coast of the Mediterranean Sea and their active role in the trade of fresh fish.
Mercury is a toxic element that accumulates in the muscle tissues of fish to varying degrees depending on species and age, with methylmercury (CH₃Hg⁺) being the most toxic and widespread form in aquatic environments. Mercury concentrations were determined using the Mercury Laboratory Analyzer LA254, and the results showed elevated levels exceeding the permissible limits set by FAO, WHO, and the EU. The average concentrations recorded were: Area 1: 0.561 ppm, Area 2: 1.212 ppm, and Area 3: 3.148 ppm, indicating a level of contamination that requires continuous monitoring, The study recommends implementing a periodic national monitoring system to assess metal pollutants in marine organisms and tightening control over industrial pollution sources, while emphasizing the need to update food regulations and enhance laboratory capabilities to ensure consumer safety in accordance with international standards
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