Determination of toxic heavy metal levels in commonly consumed species of shrimp and shellfish using ICP-MS/OES

Toxic metal concentrations, including lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), aluminum (Al), mercury (Hg), and arsenic (As) in edible tissues of different species of shrimp and shellfish consumed in South Korea were analyzed. Analysis was performed using inductively coupled plasma (ICP)-MS) for Pb, Cd and As, ICP-optical emission spectrometry (OES) for Al, and a direct mercury analyzer for Hg. Methods used were validated. Limited variation in heavy metal concentrations between shrimp and shellfish were observed. Al and As concentrations were highest while Hg was lowest. Heavy metal levels found in edible tissues of shellfish and shrimp were below international and local maximum permissible levels for human consumption. The methods used were accurate and reproducible for use in determination of toxic heavy metal levels in seafoods.