Background and purpose: Mercury is one of the most toxic heavy metals that is neurotoxic and can enter the human body mainly through consumption of contaminated seafood and get accumulated in tissues. In this study, the human health risk due to consumption of Mullet fish (Liza abu) in Karoon river, was investigated by measuring the concentration of mercury in muscle samples. Materials and methods: A total of 30 fresh fish was collected from six stations in Karoon River (located in Khuzestan province, Iran). Concentration of mercury was measured using atomic absorption spectrophotometer and cold vapor technique. Results: The average concentration of mercury in muscle of Liza abu was 0.26 μg/g of fresh weight (0.75 μg/g dry weight) which was less than the allowable amount for human consumption determined by the international organizations such as USEPA, WHO, FAO and the FDA. Conclusion: HQ Index exceeded 1 (1.11), therefore, the consumption of the Liza abu is a threat to the consumers’ health and a consumption permitted rate of 27 g/day is recommended.

Keywords: Mercury, Liza abu, Hazard Quotient, Karoon River

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