Estimation of Heavy Metals Concentration in Canned Tuna and Parental Awareness of Its Health Risks Among Primary School Children in Nalut, Libya

الملخص

Background:
Canned tuna is a widely consumed food product due to its nutritional value and convenience. However, concerns have been raised regarding its potential contamination with heavy metals such as mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), tin (Sn), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu), which may pose health risks, particularly for children.
Objectives:
This study aimed to  assess the concentrations of selected heavy metals in commercially available canned tuna sold in Nalut, Libya, and therefore to evaluate the level of parental awareness regarding the health risks associated with consuming these products among primary school children.
Methods:
A total of 35 canned fish samples (33 tuna and 2 sardines) were collected from various markets in Nalut and analyzed for Hg, Pb, Cu, Sn, and Zn using flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS) after acid digestion. In parallel, a structured questionnaire was distributed to 362 parents of primary school children (ages 6–12) to assess their awareness, consumption habits, and perceived health impacts.
Results:
The concentrations of all tested metals were within the permissible limits set by Libyan and international food safety standards. Mercury concentrations ranged from 0.009 to 0.023 μg/g; lead from 0.007 to 0.060 μg/g; copper from 0.009 to 0.702 μg/g; tin from 0.794 to 3.019 μg/g; and zinc levels were consistently <0.003 μg/g across all samples.
Survey results revealed that 96.4% of children consume canned tuna, with 49.6% eating it at home for breakfast. However, only 49.9% of parents were aware that tuna could contain heavy metals, and just 23.2% could identify related poisoning symptoms. Statistical analysis showed significant associations between tuna consumption and gender (p=0.048) as well as family size (p=0.031), but not with awareness levels (p=0.827).
Conclusion:
While chemical analyses confirm the safety of canned tuna products sold in Nalut in terms of heavy metal content, the high consumption rates among children and limited parental awareness highlight the need for targeted health education. Regular monitoring and public guidance are essential to minimize potential long-term health risks.