Seaweed is becoming a popular food source due to its high nutritional content, but may also contain potentially toxic elements (PTEs). This study investigates trends in PTEs in several species of seaweed collected in Iceland, and variations between thallus section, location, and season. As (3.8-265 mg kg-1), Cd (0.06-18 mg kg-1) and U (0.03-1.9 mg kg-1) were highest in Phaeophyta collected in February, whilst certain Chlorophyta contained the highest levels of Pb ( 0.02-1.8 mg kg-1) and Fe (25-13607 mg kg-1). Samples contained high levels of essential trace elements but elevated levels of Cd – 19 samples exceeded the maximum level (3 mg kg-1) in food supplements. As levels were also high where over half of samples exceeded the 40 mg kg-1 ML for As in seaweed-derived animal feed. Certain species grown in Iceland may be prone to high levels of Cd and not be suitable for consumption in large quantities.
Tag: PCA
Seasonal variations in quality and processing properties of whiting (Merlangius merlangus) by season
The aim of the project was to build up a specific knowledge base for cod (Merlangius merlangus) and obtain information on the variability of its quality and processing properties (chemical and physical properties) according to the season. For comparison, information on haddock was used. The results showed that fillet utilization (processing utilization) was related to carcass production, as there was a positive correlation between fillet utilization and body mass index, which was noticeably highest in March. At the same time, there was less release in the fish compared to other seasons. The results of the project seem to indicate that it is not appropriate to fish for halibut around the spawning season, or in the middle of summer, in terms of processing, physical and other quality characteristics.
The aim of the project was to study seasonal variation in quality and processing properties of whiting (Merlangius merlangus). Haddock was used as a reference group. The results showed positive correlation between fillet yield and condition factor, with highest value in March. At the same time gaping was minor. The results indicated that during spawning time it is not suitable to catch whiting with regards to processing‐ and quality properties.