Consumption Pattern and Heavy Metals Content of Commonly Consumed Fish in Benghazi

Abstract

Fish consumption has become an essential phenomenon due to the increasing appreciation of its health and economic benefits. The current study aims to identify the pattern of fish consumption and knowledge regarding the nutritive values of fish in Benghazi City. As well, it aims to analyse the heavy metals lead, cadmium and mercury in the top five most consumed fish's spices in Benghazi. A cross-sectional study was carried out on December 29, 2022, and extended to June 30, 2023. A total of 300 Subjects were randomly approached to participate in the study, giving a response rate of 85.5%. Fresh fish's samples were collected from Bankina and analysed the mentioned heavy metals using an Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Sparus aurata, Pegellus bogaraveo, Sardina pilchardus, Mullus barbatus, and Epinephelus marginatus are the most commonly consumed fish in Benghazi. Age, female gender, and number of family members are the variables associated with the fish consumption pattern in Benghazi. Lead, cadmium and mercury are the three heavy metals analyzed in the top five most consumed fish in Benghazi. All heavy metal results are within the recommended level by the WHO. The results of the current study recommend that increasing fish consumption habits should be considered an essential fact for having healthier generations. Furthermore, fish consumption should be increased through information given by educational institutions, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations.