Lead accumulation in some snails used as food at Huong river, Hue city

Abstract

In Hue City, several river snails are popularly processed into dishes. However, former studies have proved that this group of animals can accumulate heavy metals in their bodies at much higher levels than in the external environment, making them harmful to consumers’ health. Results indicated that lead contents in four species including Belaya filosa, Sulcospira proteu, Pomacea canaliculata, and Pila conquered exploited in Huong river for use as food exceeded the permitted level issued by The Ministry of Health (QCVN 8­2 : 2011/BYT). The human health risk assessment for lead exposure showed high potential risks to consumers. The risk quotation (RQs) is higher than one suggested that it is unsafe to consume these snails.