Carbon and nitrogen stable isotope ratios and mercury concentration in the scalp hair of residents from Taiji, a whaling town

► We analyzed δ13C, δ15N and Hg in hair from Japanese whale meat-eaters and non-eaters. ► The δ15N and δ13C values in whale meat-eaters were higher than those in non-eaters. ► The Hg concentration in whale meat-eaters was higher than that in non-eaters. ► A positive correlation was seen between δ15N and Hg in whale meat-eaters. ► Consumption of whale meat may increase δ15N, δ13C and Hg in the scalp hair.