Potential Risk Assessment of Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBS) in Smoked Seafoods: Four Species from Ogbe-Ijoh Main Market, Warri South West Local Government, Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study assessed the potential human health risks associated with consuming smoked seafood contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) from the Niger Delta, Nigeria. Specifically, it examined the levels and distribution of PCB congeners in commonly consumed species, compared observed concentrations with regulatory limits, estimated dietary exposure, and evaluated related health risks. Forty smoked seafood samples—small crayfish (Macrobrachium spp.), large crayfish (Penaeus notialis), bonga fish (Ethmalosa fimbriata), and catfish (Clarias gariepinus) were obtained from Ogbe-Ijoh main market. Samples were processed and analyzed for 28 PCB congeners using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) in line with validated U.S. EPA methods. Human health risk was evaluated using Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) and Hazard Quotient (HQ) calculations. PCBs were detected in all species, with Penaeus notialis showing the highest contamination, notably PCB-169 with a mean concentration of 0.08 mg/kg. Several dioxin-like congeners recorded HQ values well above 1, indicating potential noncarcinogenic health concerns. Notably, PCB-169 in Penaeus notialis had an HQ of 4.0, and all detected congeners in this species had HQs ≥ 2. Although total PCB levels were below the EU limit of 0.3 mg/kg, species-specific risks were considerable. Ethmalosa fimbriata posed the lowest risk overall. The findings suggest that regular consumption of certain smoked seafood, especially crayfish, may pose health risks due to the toxicity of specific PCB congeners. Routine monitoring, improved smoking practices, and public awareness are therefore recommended.