Accumulation of elements (S, As, Br, Sr, Cd, Hg, Pb) in two populations of Cancer pagurus: Ecological implications to human consumption

The brown crab Cancer pagurus is highly appreciated in Southern European countries and edible tissues are consumed separately or as mixtures. This species is mostly harvested along the Scottish Coast and English Channel and has different market prices depending on the catching area and sex. The aim of this study was to quantify and characterize the contents of S, As, Br, Sr, Cd, Hg and Pb in muscle, hepatopancreas, gonads and gills of female and male crabs from both catching areas. Additionally, the accumulation patterns were evaluated according to hazards for human consumption and from an ecological point of view. Crabs caught off the Scottish Coast had more S and As (gonads), while specimens from the English Channel showed more Cd (gonads) and Br (gonads, muscle). The elemental bioavailability and physiological needs likely explain these differences. Independently of catching area and sex, brown crabs’ muscle and gonads are safe food items as far as contaminants are concerned. Yet, Cd in hepatopancreas was always above the level set by international regulating organizations. Consequently, future risk assessment studies should evaluate Cd concentration in all edible tissues of crustaceans prior to the extensive use of processed tissues in food products.