Concentrations of heavy metals in muscle and edible offal of pork in Nanjing city of China and related health risks.

The concentrations of heavy metals, such as chromium (Cr), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and lead (Pb), in different muscles and edible offal of consumed pork from the city of Nanjing and related health risks were evaluated. The results showed that the detected Hg concentrations from 6 of 80 samples exceeded the maximum allowable concentration (GB 2762-2017). Moreover, most of the edible offal, especially the kidneys, contained more heavy metals than the other parts, although the concentrations among the samples were significantly different (P < 0.05). In addition, the health risk evaluation revealed that the estimated daily intake of all the samples was far below the recommended limit, and all the target hazard quotients and total target hazard quotients were less than 1, which is considered safe for human health. Nevertheless, the Hg concentrations over the acceptable limit should receive sufficient attention, considering the long-term consumption of pork. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Currently, no reports have been available on the heavy metal assessment of pork, though pork is widely consumed in many non-Muslim communities. In this study, the concentrations of heavy metals in different muscles and edible offal of consumed pork were determined and their related health risks were evaluated. This study will provide a significant reference to understand the quality and safety of pork in China or other similar developing countries.