Bousso N. C., Brehmer Patrice, Kane C., Quack B., Ndiaye W. N., Diadhiou H. D., Diedhiou F., Waeles M. (2025). Health risks status for two seaweeds of economic interest in Northwest Africa. Marine Pollution Bulletin, 218, p. 118129 [15 p.]. ISSN 0025-326X.
Titre du document
Health risks status for two seaweeds of economic interest in Northwest Africa
Seaweeds are a promising dietary resource because they contain essential trace elements. Meristotheca senegalensis and Hypnea musciformis are two economically important seaweeds in the coastal regions of Senegal. However, they can bioaccumulate potentially toxic trace elements, such as arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb), posing potential health risks. This study analyzed the elemental composition of these seaweeds and assessed their health risks using estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotients (THQ), hazard index (HI), and carcinogenic risk (CR) for both children and adults across multiple consumption levels (0.100, 2.00, 4.00, and 8.00 g day-1). Cd concentrations exceeded the toxicity thresholds in all samples, and As was the primary contributor to carcinogenic risk in nearly all scenarios. 0.100 g day-1 intake posed no significant long-term risk for adults, while it presented carcinogenic risks for children depending on the collection site. These findings emphasize the need for site-specific monitoring and the development of safety guidelines to support the sustainable integration of seaweed into food systems within Africa's emerging blue economy.
