Norway salmon toxic
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Toxicity in Norwegian Farmed Salmon: An Overview
Introduction to Contaminant Levels in Norwegian Farmed Salmon
Norwegian farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) has been under scrutiny for potential toxic contaminants. Over a 13-year period from 1999 to 2011, significant efforts were made to monitor and analyze the levels of various contaminants in these fish. The primary contaminants of concern include dioxins, PCBs, heavy metals, and organochlorine pesticides.
Decrease in Contaminant Levels Over Time
Dioxins and PCBs
The levels of dioxins and dioxin-like PCBs in Norwegian farmed salmon have shown a notable decrease over the years. By 2011, the levels were low enough to allow for the consumption of up to 1.3 kg of salmon per week without exceeding the tolerable weekly intake. This reduction is significant as dioxins and PCBs are known for their potential to cause chronic health issues in humans.
Heavy Metals and Pesticides
Similarly, the levels of heavy metals such as mercury and arsenic, as well as organochlorine pesticides like DDT, have also decreased. However, the levels of cadmium, lead, and several other pesticides were too low to establish clear trends. This overall reduction in contaminants suggests improved practices in salmon farming and feed production.
Radionuclides in Farmed Salmon
A comprehensive survey of radionuclides in Norwegian farmed salmon revealed the presence of both natural and anthropogenic radionuclides. The only anthropogenic radionuclide detected was 137Cs, found at low levels. Natural radionuclides like 40K were present at higher levels, but the overall risk from radioactivity in farmed salmon remains very low.
Chemical Use and Environmental Impact
Antifoulants, Antibiotics, and Disinfectants
The use of chemicals in salmon aquaculture, including antifoulants, antibiotics, parasiticides, anaesthetics, and disinfectants, varies by country. Norway, along with Scotland and parts of Canada, has regulations requiring public reporting of chemical use, which aids in monitoring and mitigating environmental impacts.
Resistance to Treatments
The salmon louse (Lepeophtheirus salmonis) has developed resistance to several chemotherapeutants, including hydrogen peroxide. This resistance complicates the management of salmon lice, a significant issue for the industry. Non-medicinal methods and the use of cleaner fish have been increasingly adopted to combat this problem .
Health Risks and Safety
Salmonella in Fish Feed
Salmonella is a concern in fish feed, but the prevalence in Norwegian fish feed is low. The risk of transmission to humans via farmed salmon is minimal, given the low concentrations of Salmonella in the feed and the stringent monitoring practices in place.
Comparison with Other Regions
Farmed salmon from Norway, Maine, and eastern Canada have been compared for contaminant levels. Norwegian salmon, particularly those organically farmed, showed higher concentrations of PCBs and dioxin-like PCBs compared to wild Alaskan salmon. This highlights the need for continued efforts to reduce contaminant levels in farmed salmon.
Conclusion
Overall, the levels of toxic contaminants in Norwegian farmed salmon have decreased over the years, making it safer for consumption. However, challenges such as chemical resistance in salmon lice and the presence of radionuclides and Salmonella in fish feed require ongoing attention. Continued monitoring and improved farming practices are essential to ensure the safety and sustainability of Norwegian farmed salmon.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Contaminant levels in Norwegian farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) in the 13-year period from 1999 to 2011.
Freshwater treatment of amoebic gill disease and sea-lice in seawater salmon production: Considerations of water chemistry and fish welfare in Norway
Natural and anthropogenic radionuclides in Norwegian farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar).
PCBs, PCDD/Fs, and organochlorine pesticides in farmed Atlantic salmon from Maine, eastern Canada, and Norway, and wild salmon from Alaska.
Toxic and essential elements in seafood from Mausund, Norway
Chemical use in salmon aquaculture: A review of current practices and possible environmental effects
Trends in de-lousing of Norwegian farmed salmon from 2000–2019—Consumption of medicines, salmon louse resistance and non-medicinal control methods
Salmonella in fish feed; occurrence and implications for fish and human health in Norway
First report of reduced sensitivity towards hydrogen peroxide found in the salmon louse Lepeophtheirus salmonis in Norway
A report on some metazoan parasites of wild marine salmon (Salmo salar L.) from the west coast of Norway with comments on their interactions with farmed salmon
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