Analysis of toxic trace elements in sea food samples by neutron activation

The aim of this study is to investigate the contents of toxic and essential trace element such as As, Hg, Se and Zn by neutron activation analysis in coastal fishes consumed by the general population of Malaysia. The mean values of the elements analysed expressed in mg/kg fresh weight ranged 1.42–5.61, 0.06–0.42, 4.2–20.6, 0.41–1.28 for As, Hg, Zn and Se, respectively. The maximum permissible limit for As in food was set at 1.0 mg/kg under the Malaysian Food Regulations. Our results showed that consumption of coastal fishes is not permitted under the regulations, while the levels of Hg, Se and Zn were within the permissible limits. The daily dietary intake of As and Hg at 400 g and 30g respectively are still within the tolerance levels.