Summary
This report summarises the monitoring data collected in 2018 on the status of illegal substances, pharmaceuticals and contaminants in Norwegian farmed fish. A total of 13 920 fish were collected. Samples examined for illegal compounds could be collected at all stages of farming and are representative of farmed fish under production. The samples were analysed for substances with anabolic effects or unauthorized substances. No residues of illegal compounds were detected. Samples tested for approved veterinary drugs and contaminants were collected at processing plants, and are representative of Norwegian farmed fish ready for human consumption. Residues of anti sea lice agents were found in four samples, the levels present were below the Maximum Residue Limit (MRL) for all samples. Other veterinary drugs, like antibiotics or drugs used against internal parasites were not found. No environmental contaminants were found above the EU maximum limits.
1 - Introduction
1.1 - Background
According to EU legislation (96/23/EC), all food producing animals should be monitored for certain substances and residues thereof. The following residues or substance groups are monitored in Norwegian farmed fish:
Group A Substances with anabolic effects and unauthorized substances:
A1: Stilbenes, derivatives and their salts and esters
A3: Steroids
A6: Prohibited substances
Group B Veterinary drugs and contaminants:
B1: Antibacterial agents
B2a: Anthelmintics
B2d: Sedatives
B3a: Organochlorine compounds
B3b: Organophosphorus compounds
B3c: Chemical elements
B3d: Mycotoxins
B3e: Dyes
B3f: Others
1.2 - Group A, Substances with anabolic effects and unauthorized substances
Fish tested for illegal compounds were collected at the farm by official inspectors from the Norwegian Food Safety Authorities, without prior notification to the farmers. Sampling can be done at all stages of farming and are representative of farmed fish during production. Group A includes growth promoters like steroids and stilbenes, and unauthorized drugs. Unauthorized drugs considered most relevant for aquaculture are chloramphenicol, nitrofurans, metronidazole and dyes. The dyes; malachite green, crystal violet and brilliant green are not allowed to use for food producing species (EU 2010/37), they are therefore considered an A substance and hence sampled throughout the production chain. However, according to directive 96/23 these dyes belong to the group B3e. Therefore, some of the samples assigned to analysis of dyes were also collected at the slaughterhouse.
To ensure harmonized levels for the control of unauthorized substances, the analytical methods should meet a minimum required performance limits (MRPLs) set by the European Union (2002/657/EC), and European reference laboratories (EU-RLs), (CRL 2007). Table. 7.3 gives an overview of MRPLs of relevant compounds.
1.3 - Group B, veterinary drugs
In order to protect public health, Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) have been established. According to current EU legislation (EU 37/2010) each substance is assigned a MRL, which is the highest permitted residual concentration of legally applied pharmacologically active substances in products intended for human consumption. The MRLs for fish are set for muscle and skin in natural proportions. Samples examined for veterinary drugs were collected from fish at processing plants and the samples are representative of fish ready to be placed on the market for human consumption. In order to use a veterinary drug for food producing animals, a maximum residue limit (MRL) has to be evaluated. The MRL is the highest permitted residual concentration of legally applied pharmacologically active substances in animals or animal products intended for human consumption. Consumption of food with drug residues below the MRL should not pose a health risk to the consumer.
1.4 - Group B, contaminants
Samples examined for contaminants were collected from fish at processing plants, and are representative of fish ready for human consumption. The EU (EU 1881/2006) has set a Maximum limit (ML) for some of the contaminants in fish, while for others, like the pesticides, PAH, PFC and BFR, maximum limits have not been established.
1.5 - Ethoxyquin
Ethoxyquin (EQ) is a synthetic antioxidant, widely used as an additive (E324) in components for animal feed for pets and livestock to preserve product quality and increase shelf live. Because of its high efficacy, EQ has also been widely used by the global fishmeal industry both as a nutritional preservative, but also to avoid oxidation and self-ignition under long-distance transport.
2 - Material and methods
2.1 - Sampling
Samples were taken on fish farms or slaughterhouses, by official inspectors, in all fish-producing regions in Norway. The sampling plan was randomised according to season and region. In 2018, the following fish species were included in the monitoring program: Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar), rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), turbot (Scophthalmus maximus), Atlantic halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus), Arctic char (Salvelinus alpinus) and Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua).Samples were transported to IMR in a frozen state. For most samples, the Norwegian quality cut (NQC) was used for further analyses (Johnsen 2011). However, for most of the samples collected for analysis of antibiotics, individual livers were also collected. Samples to be used for analyses of substances with anabolic effects or unauthorized substances also included small fish from early life stages and in these cases, the whole fish except head, tail and gut were homogenised. The samples were analysed as pooled samples comprising five fish from the same cage/farm.
2.2 - Pre-treatment
Upon arrival at IMR the sample identification were anonymised for the analysts. A back-up sample was stored for all samples. Pooled samples of muscle from five fish from the same cage/farm were homogenised before analyses. Samples of liver were excised from the fish in samples to be screened for residues of antimicrobial agents by the microbiological inhibition zone assay. Liver samples were examined individually, if residues were detected, the back-up sample of muscle would be analysed by chemical methods. The maximum residue limits for veterinary drugs are set for muscle and skin in natural proportions (EU 37/2010). Therefore, according to the analytical protocol, any detection of drug residues in the muscle or liver would be followed by a re-analysis of the back up sample, consisting of muscle and skin in natural proportions, in duplicate.
2.3 - Analytical methods
The laboratory routines and most of the analytical methods are accredited in accordance with the standard ISO 17025 (Table 7.3). A summary of the analytical methods and their limit of detection (LOD) or limit of quantification (LOQ) is shown in table 7.3. The LOD is the lowest level at which the method is able to detect the substance, while the LOQ is the lowest level for a reliable quantitative measurement. For all methods, a sample blank and a quality control sample (QC) with a known composition and concentration of target analyte, are included in each series. The methods are regularly verified by participation in inter laboratory proficiency tests, or by analysing certified reference material (CRM), where such exist.
2.3.1 - Group A substances
A1, Stilbenes
Stilbenes were extracted by water and acetonitrile. Liquid-liquid extraction was used for sample clean up. The stilbenes were and analysed by LC-MS/MS.
A3, Steroids
Steroids were extracted by water and acetonitrile. Liquid-liquid extraction followed by solid phase extraction was used for sample clean up, before the samples were analysed by LC-MS/MS.
A6, Illegal veterinary drugs
Chloramphenicol
Chloramphenicol was extracted with ethyl acetate. Liquid-liquid extraction was used to purify the extract. The samples were analysed by LC-MS/MS.
Nitrofurans
The nitrofuran metabolites were extracted with aqueous hydrochloric acid and derivatized with nitrobenzaldehyde. Solid phase extraction was used for sample clean up. The analytes were determined by LC-MS/MS.
Metronidazole
Metronidazole and its metabolite hydroxymetronidazole were extracted by ethyl acetate. Solid phase extraction was used for sample clean up. The analytes were determined by LC-MS/MS
Malachite green (MG), crystal violet (CV), brilliant green (BG)
The analytes were extracted with acetonitrile and dichloromethane. Samples clean-up were performed by solid phase extraction. MG, CV, BG and the metabolites leuco malachite green (LMG) and leuco crystal violet (LCV), were determined by LC-MS/MS.
2.3.2 - Group B substances
B1, Antibacterial agents (antibiotics)
The presence of antibacterial agents was determined by a three plate microbiological assay or by chemical analysis.
Microbiological assay
For the three-plate microbiological inhibition method, a specific bacterial strain was added to a plate containing growth agar and. Small pieces of liver were placed on the plates before incubation. If the samples contained residues of antibacterial agents, the bacterial growth would be inhibited in a zone around each piece of liver tissue. Thus, a transparent zone with no bacterial growth surrounding the liver sample would indicate a positive sample. Any positive detection had to be verified by chemical analysis of muscle and skin.
Oxolinic acid, flumequine, enrofloxacin, ciprofloxacin and trimethoprim
The analytes were extracted with acetonitrile and water. The analysis was performed by LC-MS/MS.
Oxytetracyclin
The analyte was extracted with acetonitrile. Liquid-liquid extraction was used to purify the extract. Oxytetracyclin was analysed by LC-MS/MS.
Florfenicol
The analyte was extracted with ethyl acetate. Liquid-liquid extraction was used to purify the extract. The samples were analysed by LC-MS/MS.
B2a, Anthelmintics
Diflubenzuron, teflubenzuron, lufenuron and hexaflumuron
The analytes were extracted with acetone. Solid phase extraction was used for sample clean up. The samples were analysed by LC-MS/MS (Samuelsen et al. 2014).
Emamectin
Emamectin was extracted with acetonitrile, and analysed by LC-MS/MS.
Ivermectin
Ivermectin was extracted with organic solvent, and the extract were purified by solid phase extraction. The samples was analysed by LC-MS/MS
Cypermethrin and deltamethrin
Cypermethrin and deltamethrin were extracted by soxhlet extraction. The extracts were purified by gel permeation chromatography. The samples were analysed by GC-MS/MS.
Fenbendazole
Fenbendazole was extracted using methanol and water. Sample clean up was performed by liquid-liquid extraction. The samples were analysed by LC-MS/MS.
Praziquantel
Praziquantel was extracted from the sample by acetone, and analysed by LC-MS/MS.
B2d, Sedatives
Isoeugenol
Isoeugenol is analysed by GC coupled to a flame ionization detector (FID).
B3a, Organochlorine compounds
Dioxins, dl-PCBs, PCB-6 and PBDEs.
This is an adaptation to modern clean-up equipment of the US-EPAs (Environmental Protection Agency) methods No. 1613 and 1668. Separation and quantification were performed by high resolution gas chromatography/high resolution mass spectrometry (HRGC/HRMS). The method measures all of the 29 compounds on the WHO list: 17 PCDD / PCDF congeners, four non-ortho substituted PCBs: PCB -77, 81, 126 and 169 and eight mono-ortho substituted PCBs: PCB-105, 114, 118, 123, 156, 157, 167 and 189 (Berntssen, Julshamn et al. 2010). The PCBs included in PCB-6, PCBs no. 28, 52, 101, 138, 153 and 180, were analysed by GC-MS/MS. The PBDEs were analysed by GC/MS in a relevant solvent fraction from the EPA clean-up procedure (Pirard, De Pauw et al. 2003).
PCB-6
The six PCBs were extracted by hexane using an accelerated solvent extractor. The extract was purified by sulphuric acid before detection and quantification by GC-MS (Berntssen et al. 2011). The method quantifies the PCBs no. 28, 52, 101, 138, 153 and 180.
Chlorinated pesticides
Pesticides were extracted by organic solvent, and the extract were cleaned-up by column chromatography, before the pesticides were analysed by HRGC-HRMS.
B3b, Organophosphorus compounds
Azamethiphos and dichlorvos
The analytes were extracted with acetonitrile, and analysed by LC-MS/MS.
Chlorpyriphos and Pirimiphos
Chlorpyriphos, chlorpyrifos-methyl, pirimiphos-methyl and pirimiphos-ethyl were extracted by soxhlet extraction. The extracts were purified by gel permeation chromatography. The samples were analysed by GC-MS/MS.
B3c, elements
Lead, mercury, cadmium and arsenic
The sample was decomposed by acid treatment, assisted by heat and high pressure. The metals were analysed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS) (Julshamn, Maage et al. 2007).
Inorganic Arsenic
Inorganic arsenic was extracted by hydrochloric acid in hydrogen peroxide at 90 °C. Inorganic arsenic includes As (III) and As (V). As (III) was oxidised to As (V) during the extraction. Inorganic arsenic was separated from other arsenic compounds by anionic exchange HPLC, and detected by ICP-MS.
Methylmercury
Methylmercury was extracted by Tetramethylammonium Hydroxide. The pH was adjusted before derivatization and extraction by hexane. The samples were analysed by GC-ICP-MS.
Tributyltin
Tributyltin was extracted by acetic acid/methanol. The pH was adjusted before derivatization and extraction by hexane. The samples were analysed by GC-ICP-MS.
B3d, Mycotoxins
Enniatin and beauvericin
The mycotoxins; beauvericin, enniatin A, enniatin A1, enniatin B and enniatin B1were extracted with acetonitrile and water. Solid phase extraction was used for sample clean up. The mycotoxins were analysed by LC-MS/MS.
B3f, Others
HBCD
HBCD was extracted by a soxhlet apparatus, using a mixture of acetone and hexane. Sulfuric acid was used for purification. The extract was further cleaned up by an alumina column. The HBCD isomers were analysed by LC-MS/MS.
TBBPA
TBBPA was extracted by a soxhlet apparatus using a mix of acetone and hexane. Sulfuric acid was used for purification. O-bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide (BSTFA) was used for derivatization. The extract was purified using column chromatography. TBBPA was analyzed by GC-MS using Electron Ionization (EI).
PFC
PFCs were extracted by methanol, the extract was purified by solid phase extraction. PFCs were analysed by LC-MS/MS.
PAH
PAHs were extracted by dichloromethane and cyclohexane using an Accelerated Solvent Extractor (ASE). The extract was purified by solid phase extraction and analysed by GC-MS/MS.
Ethoxyquin
EQ and EQDM were extracted with hexane from pooled muscle samples, after saponification in a mixture of ethanol, NaCl and NaOH. EQ and EQDM were quantified by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection, using an external standard curve, as previously described by Bohne et al. (2007), with modifications described by Ørnsrud et al. (2011).
Table 2.1. Number of fish analysed for each substance.
Compounds | Fish | Atlantic salmon | Rainbow trout | Atlantic halibut | Arctic char | Turbot |
A1 Stilbenes |
Zeranol, 17alpha-Estradiol, 17alpha-Ethinyl-estradiol, 17beta-Estradiol, beta-Zearalanol, Dienestrol, Diethylstilbestrol, Estriol, Estrone, Hexestrol | 815 | 760 | 50 | | 5 | |
A3 Steroids |
16-Hydroxystanozolol, 17alpha-Boldenone, 17alpha-Trenbolone, alpha-Nandrolone, Boldenone, Chlor-Testosterone, Epitestosterone, Methyl-Boldenone, Methyltestosterone, Nortestosterone, Stanozolol, Testosterone, Testosterone propionate, Trenbolone, Trenbolone-acetate | 815 | 765 | 50 | | | |
A6 Illegal drugs |
Chloramphenicol | 820 | 770 | 50 | | | |
Metronidazole | 815 | 770 | 35 | 10 | | |
Nitrofuran metabolites (AOZ, AMOZ, AHD, SEM) | 825 | 770 | 45 | 10 | | |
Malachite green, Crystal violet, Brilliant green* | 835 | 775 | 45 | 10 | 5 | |
B1 Antibiotics |
Florfenicol | 260 | 250 | 10 | | | |
Oxytetracycline | 100 | 100 | | | | |
Flumequine, Oxolinic acid, Enrofloxacin, Ciprofloxacin, Trimethoprim | 360 | 345 | 15 | | | |
Quinolones (liver), Tetracyclines (liver), Amphenicols (liver), Sulphonamides (liver) | 1500 | 1365 | 115 | 5 | 10 | 5 |
B2 Other veterinary drugs |
Emamectin | 845 | 810 | 40 | | 5 | |
Cypermethrin, Deltamethrin | 600 | 575 | 25 | | | |
Diflubenzuron, Teflubenzuron, Hexaflumeron, Lufenuron | 800 | 740 | 55 | | 5 | |
Ivermectin | 75 | 60 | 10 | | 5 | |
Praziquantel | 495 | 455 | 40 | | | |
Fenbendazole | 50 | 45 | 5 | | | |
Isoeugenol | 140 | 140 | | | | |
B3a Organochlorine compounds |
Pesticides | 485 | 445 | 40 | | | |
Dioxin and dl-PCBs | 350 | 340 | 5 | | | 5 |
PCB-6 | 680 | 650 | 20 | 5 10 | | 5 |
B3b, Organophosphorus compounds |
Azamethiphos, Dichlorvos | 250 | 245 | 5 | | | |
Chlorpyriphos, Pirimiphos | 600 | 575 | 25 | | | |
B3c Chemical elements |
Lead Cadmium Mercury Arsenic | 435 | 410 | 25 | | | |
Inorganic arsenic Methylmercury | 100 | 95 | 5 | | | |
Tributyltin | 260 | 250 | 10 | | | |
B3d, Mycotoxins |
Beauvericin, Enniatin | 495 | 460 | 30 | | 5 | |
B3e, Dyes |
Malachite green, Crystal violet, Brilliant green * | 460 | 455 | 5 | | | |
B3f, Others |
PBDE | 350 | 340 | 5 | | | 5 |
HBCD, TBBPA | 340 | 320 | 20 | | | |
PAH | 355 | 325 | 25 | | 5 | |
PFC | 365 | 350 | 15 | | | |
Ethoxyquin | 375 | 335 | 35 | | 5 | |
Some of the samples collected have been analysed by more than one method. Therefore, the total of fish in this table will be higher than the number of fish collected.*
According to directive 96/23, malachite green, crystal violet and brilliant green belongs to the group B3e. However, these dyes are not allowed to be used for food producing animals, therefore samples analysed for dyes have been collected as both group A samples (illegal drugs) and group B samples (dyes).
3 - Results
3.1 - Substances with anabolic effects and unauthorized substances
A total of 1 085 pooled fillet samples from 5 425 fish, were examined for of illegal substances. The analyzed samples were mainly from Atlantic salmon, but also samples from rainbow trout, and Arctic char were examined. For illegal substances, any presence of the compound will lead to a non-compliant result, regardless of the level.
3.1.1 - Stilbenes
The presence of stilbenes was examined in 163 pooled samples. None of the included stilbenes was detected in the samples analysed.
3.1.2 - Steroids
The presence of steroids was examined in 163 pooled samples. None of the substances was detected in the samples analysed.
3.1.3 - Unauthorized veterinary drugs
Totally 751 pooled samples were analyzed for unauthorized veterinary drugs. No residues of malachite green, crystal violet, brilliant green, chloramphenicol, nitrofurans or metronidazole were detected.
3.2 - Veterinary drugs
Samples analysed for veterinary drugs were collected from fish at processing plants and are representative of fish ready for human consumption. The maximum residue limit for veterinary drugs is defined for muscle and skin in natural proportions (EU 37/2010). Therefore, according to the analytical protocol, any detection of drug residues in the muscle or liver would be followed by a re-analysis of the backup sample, consisting of muscle and skin in natural proportions, in duplicate.
3.2.1 - Group B1, antibacterial agents
The antibacterial agents were determined by a combination of the three plate bioassay and chemical methods. The broad groups a) quinolones, b) amphenicols and tetracyclines and c) sulphonamides, were measured in livers from 1 500 fish. Florfenicol, (52 pooled samples), oxytetracyclin (20 pooled samples) and flumequin, oxolinic acid, enrofloxacin, ciprofloxacin and trimethoprim (72 pooled samples) were also analysed by chemical methods. No residues were detected in any of the analysed samples. The LOQs of the respective compounds are listed in Table 7.3.
3.2.2 - Group B2a anthelmintics
The levels of the anthelmintics; teflubenzuron, diflubenzuron, cypermethrin, deltamethrin, emamectin, ivermectin, praziquantel or fenbendazole were determined in 510 pooled muscle samples representing 2 550 fish. Emamectin was detected in 3 out of 162 pooled samples of Atlantic salmon. The highest concentration of emamectin was found at 5.2 µg/kg. This concentration is below the MRL of 100 µg/kg (EU 37/2010). Residues of the anti sea lice agent lufenuron was found in one sample at a concentration of 12 µg/kg. The MRL for lufenuron is 1350 µg/kg (EU 37/2010). Residues of other agents in this group were not detected in any of the samples. LOQs for the substances are specified in Table. 7.3.
3.2.3 - Group B3b. Organophosphorous compounds
No residues of azamethiphos or dichlorvos were detected in the 50 samples analysed for these analytes.
3.2.4 - Group B3d. Sedatives
Residue of isoeugenol was not detected in any of the 28 samples analysed for this sedative.
3.3 - Contaminants
Samples analysed for contaminants were collected from fish at processing plants, and are representative of fish ready for human consumption.
3.3.1 - Group B3a, Organochlorine compounds
The levels of organochlorine compounds were determined in 239 pooled samples. The results are summarised in Table 3.1 to 3.3.
3.3.2 - Organochlorine pesticides
For a number of the pesticides, the amount present is calculated as a sum including metabolites or transformation products (SANTE 2015). The results for these groups of pesticides are presented in table 3.1.
Table 3.1. The sum of groups of pesticides (µg/kg w.w.) in fillets of farmed fish
| Atlantic Salmon | Rainbow trout |
Sum | Samples | 89 | 8 |
DDT | Median (UB) | 6.5 | 8.8 |
Max (UB) | 13 | 12 |
Endosulfan | Median (UB) | 0.85 | 0.86 |
Max (UB) | 3.1 | 0.89 |
Aldrin and dieldrin | Median (UB) | 1.3 | 1.6 |
Max (UB) | 3.6 | 2.2 |
Chlordane | Median (UB) | 1.0 | 1.1 |
Max (UB) | 2.5 | 1.7 |
Heptachlor | Median (UB) | 0.47 | 0.50 |
Max (UB) | 1.3 | 0.67 |
Toxaphene | Median (UB) | 2.6 | 2.5 |
Max (UB) | 9.1 | 5.5 |
To calculate the sum of the components, conversion factors (table 7.4) are used to adjust for different molecular weights (SANTE 2015). The sums in table 3.1. were calculated according to the upper bound (UB) formula. When using UB calculations, the numerical value of LOQ is substituted for analytes with levels below LOQ. UB represents a “worst case scenario”. As an example, all measurements of endosulfan are below LOQ, however, a sum is generated based on the LOQ-values.
The results for the other pesticides are summarised in Table 3.2. The highest level measured was 2.3 µg/kg w.w. of trans-nonachlor and 4.1 µg/kg w.w. hexachlorobenzene.
Table 3.2. Pesticides (µg/kg w.w.) in fillets of farmed fish.
Pesticide | Atlantic salmon | Rainbow Trout | LOQ |
| Samples | 89 | 8 | |
α-Hexachlorocyclo- hexane | #Values | 12 | 0 | |
Median | LOQ | LOQ | |
Max | 0.24 | LOQ | 0.13-0.60 |
β-Hexachlorocyclo- hexane | #Values | 3 | 2 | |
Median | LOQ | LOQ | |
Max | 0.19 | 0.26 | 0.13-0.60 |
δ-Hexachlorocyclo- hexane | #Values | 0 | 0 | |
Median | LOQ | LOQ | |
Max | LOQ | LOQ | 0.13-0.60 |
γ-Hexachlorocyclo- hexane | #Values | 0 | 0 | |
Median | LOQ | LOQ | |
Max | LOQ | LOQ | 0.13-0.60 |
Hexachlorobenzene | #Values | 88 | 8 | |
Median | 1.4 | 1.5 | |
Max | 4.1 | 2.7 | 0.06-1.0 |
Pentachlorobenzene | #Values | 3 | 0 | |
Median | LOQ | LOQ | |
Max | 0.37 | LOQ | 0.30-1.2 |
Trans-Nonachlor | #Values | 89 | 8 | |
Median | 0.74 | 1.0 | |
Max | 2.3 | 1.9 | 0.13-0.60 |
Endrin | #Values | 4 | 0 | |
Median | LOQ | LOQ | |
Max | 0.49 | LOQ | 0.15-0.71 |
Mirex | #Values | 21 | 4 | |
Median | LOQ | LOQ | |
Max | 0.12 | 0.11 | 0.05-0.24 |
Octachlorstyrol | #Values | 82 | 7 | |
Median | 0.09 | 0.10 | |
Max | 0.18 | 0.20 | 0.03-0.12 |
3.3.3 - Dioxin, dl-PCBs and PCB-6
The levels of dioxin, dl-PCBs and PCB-6 in farmed fish are shown in Table 3.3. The data is mainly represented by Atlantic salmon, but also samples from rainbow trout, Atlantic halibut, and turbot have been examined.
The sums of dioxins, dioxins + dl-PCBs and PCB-6 are calculated as upper bound (EU 1259/2011). Accordingly, the numerical LOQ values were used for congeners with levels below LOQ.
The level of dioxins and dl-PCBs are reported as ng toxic equivalents 2005 (TEQ05)/kg, and represents the sum of 17 different PCDD/F and 12 dl-PCBs where each congener was multiplied by a Toxic Equivalency Factor (TEF). TEF values are determined by WHO, and the toxicity of each congener has been expressed relative to the most toxic form of dioxin, 2,3,7,8-TCDD which has a TEF value of 1(EU 1259/2011).
For salmon, the median of the sum of dioxins was 0.23 ng TEQ/kg w.w. The maximum value of 0.47 ng TEQ/kg w.w. is below the EU maximum limit of 3.5 ng TEQ/kg w.w.
The median of the sum of all 29 PCDD/F and dl-PCBs was 0.58 ng TEQ/kg w.w for salmon. The highest result for salmon was 1.3 ng TEQ/kg w.w. All values were below the EU maximum limit of 6.5 ng TEQ/kg w.w.
The median of PCB-6 for salmon was 4.7 μg/kg w.w. The EUs maximum limit for PCB-6 in fish is 75 μg/kg w.w. and the highest concentration of PCB-6 measured in 2018 was 12 μg/kg w.w. in an Atlantic halibut sample.
Table 3.3 Dioxins, dl-PCBs and PCB-6 in fillets of farmed fish.
| Atlantic Salmon | Rainbow trout | Atlantic halibut | Turbot | Maximum limit |
| Samples | 68 | 1 | | 1 | |
Sum dioxins (ng TEQ/kg w.w.) | Median | 0.23 | - | | - | |
Max | 0.47 | 0.24 | | 0.17 | 3.5 |
Sum dioxin + dl-PCBs (ng TEQ/kg w.w.) | Median | 0.58 | - | | - | |
Max | 1.3 | 0.60 | | 0.65 | 6.5 |
| Samples | 130 | 4 | 1 | 1 | |
PCB-6 (µg/kg w.w.) | Median | 4.7 | 6.0 | - | - | |
Max | 11 | 8.9 | 12 | 5.5 | 75 |
3.3.4 - Group B3b. Organophosphorous compounds
The pesticides chlorpyriphos, chlorpyrifos-methyl, pirimiphos-methyl and pirimiphos-ethyl were analysed in totally 120 pooled samples, 115 of the samples were salmon and 5 of the samples were rainbow trout, no residues were found.
3.3.5 - Group B3c, Chemical elements
In 2018, the highest measured concentration of total mercury were 0.062 mg/kg w.w. in a salmon sample and 0.027 mg/kg w.w. in a rainbow trout sample (Table 3.4). The EU maximum limit is 0.50 mg/kg w.w. for mercury in the species analysed in this report (EU 1881/2006). Thus, the concentrations measured in all samples are below the maximum limit. In addition to mercury, methylmercury was measured in 20 samples. The result showed that the levels of methylmercury (Table 7.1) were similar to the level of mercury in the same samples.
The concentrations of cadmium in most samples analysed since 2002 have been lower than the LOQ. In 2018, one sample had levels above the LOQ. The highest concentration measured was 0.002 mg/kg w.w. which is well below EUs maximum limit of 0.05 mg/kg w.w. (EU 1881/2006).
Arsenic is determined as “total arsenic”, comprising the sum of all arsenic species. The median level of total arsenic in Atlantic salmon was 0.75 mg/kg w.w., and the highest concentration measured was 2.2 mg/kg w.w. (Table 3.4). None of the samples had concentrations of inorganic arsenic above the LOQ (Table 7.1), indicating that arsenic in fish is present mainly as organo-arsenic compounds of low toxicity (Shiomi 1994). There is currently no EU upper limit for neither total arsenic nor inorganic arsenic in fish fillets.
A quantifiable concentration of lead was detected in one of the 87 samples analysed. The EU maximum level for lead in muscle meat of fish is 0.30 mg/kg w.w. (EU 1881/2006). The highest concentration measured was 0.011 mg/kg w.w. Thus, all samples were well below the limit.
Monobutyltin was found in concentrations above the LOQ in 12 out of 50 samples analyzed, the maximum level was 2 µg/kg w.w.. All samples analysed for dibutyltin were below the LOQ. Tributyltin was detected in 17 of the analysed samples. The highest measured level was 0.3 µg/kg w.w.. There is currently no EU upper limit for tin in fish fillet.
Table 3.4. Chemical elements in fillets of farmed fish
Element | | Atlantic Salmon | Rainbow trout | Arctic Char | Cod | LOQ | EU- Limit |
| N | 82 | 5 | | | | |
Mercury (mg/kg w.w.) | #Values | 80 | 5 | | | | |
Median | 0.020 | 0.022 | | | | |
Max | 0.062 | 0.027 | | | 0.002 | 0.50 |
Arsenic (mg/kg w.w.) | #Values | 82 | 5 | | | | |
Median | 0.75 | 0.79 | | | | |
Max | 2.2 | 1.1 | | | 0.003 | n.a. |
Cadmium (mg/kg w.w.) | #Values | 1 | 0 | | | | |
Median | - | - | | | | |
Max | 0.002 | LOQ | | | 0.009-0.002 | 0.050 |
Lead (mg/kg w.w.) | #Values | 1 | 0 | | | | |
Median | - | - | | | | |
Max | 0.011 | LOQ | | | 0.005-0.01 | 0.30 |
| N | 50 | 2 | | | | |
Monobutyltin (µg Sn/kg w.w.) | #Values | 11 | 1 | | | | |
Median | 0.5 | - | | | | |
Max | 2 | 0.40 | | | 0.4-1 | n.a. |
Dibutyltin (µg Sn/kg w.w.) | #Values | 0 | 0 | | | | |
Median | - | - | | | | |
Max | LOQ | LOQ | | | 0.2-0.5 | n.a. |
Tributyltin (µg Sn/kg w.w.) | #Values | 15 | 2 | | | | |
Median | 0.08 | 0.3 | | | | |
Max | 0.2 | 0.3 | | | 0.06-0.09 | n.a. |
3.3.6 - Group B3d, Mycotoxins
In 2018, 93 pooled samples were analysed for enniatin A, enniatin A1, enniatin B, enniatin B1 and beauvericin. No residues of these mycotoxins were detected.
3.3.7 - Group B3f, others
The group B3f, others is a group not required for finfish products by the directive 96/23EC, but are deemed relevant for analyses in Norwegian aquaculture by the NSFA and IMR. This group currently consist of brominated flame retardants (BFR), perfluorinated compounds (PFC) and polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). These are undesirable compounds present in the environment and may affect food safety. In addition, in 2018, levels of the technological feed additive ethoxyquin (EQ) and its main transformation product ethoxyquin dimer (EQDM) were examined.
3.3.8 - Brominated flame retardants
PBDE, TBBPA and HBCD are compounds used as flame retardants. The summarised PBDE-7 (28, 47, 99, 100, 153, 154, 183) and PBDE 66, 119 and 138 are shown in Table 3.5. The highest level of PBDE-7 was 0.96 μg/kg w.w. with a median value of 0.46 μg/kg w.w for salmon. Out of 64 pooled samples of Atlantic salmon and 4 pooled samples of rainbow trout, TBBPA was found at a quantifyable level in one sample of salmon (0.05 μg/kg w.w.). HBCD was analysed in 68 samples, the highest level was 1.2 μg/kg w.w. The median concentration of HBCD in salmon was 0.11 μg/kg w.w.. There is currently no EU maximum limit for BFRs in food.
Table 3.5 BFR (µg/kg w.w.) in fillets of farmed fish.
| Atlantic Salmon | Rainbow trout | Turbot | LOQ |
| Samples | 68 | 1 | 1 | |
UB-Sum PBDE 7 | Median | 0.46 | - | - | |
Max | 0.96 | 0.61 | 0.40 | |
PBDE 66 | #Values | 68 | 1 | 1 | |
Median | 0.011 | - | - | |
Max | 0.035 | 0.010 | 0.011 | 0.002-0.01 |
PBDE 119 | #Values | 41 | 1 | 1 | |
Median | 0.0030 | - | - | |
Max | 0.014 | 0.0027 | 0.0027 | 0.002-0.01 |
PBDE 138 | #Values | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
Median | - | - | - | |
Max | LOQ | LOQ | LOQ | 0.003-0.02 |
| Samples | 64 | 4 | 0 | |
TBBPA | #Values | 1 | 0 | | |
Median | - | - | | |
Max | 0.05 | - | | 0.03-0.14 |
| Samples | 64 | 4 | 0 | |
UB-Sum HBCD(α,β,γ) | Median | 0.12 | 0.11 | | |
Max | 1.2 | 0.27 | | |
3.3.9 - Perfluorinated compounds
A total of 73 samples were analysed for the PFCs. All results were below the LOQ (Table 7.3). EU has no maximum level for PFC in food.
3.3.10 - Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
The results for PAH are summarised in table 3.6. PAH was analysed in 71 samples, of which 65 samples were from salmon, five from rainbow trout and one was Arctic char. There is no maximum limit for PAH in fresh fish (EU 835/2011).
Table 3.6 PAH (µg/kg w.w.) in fillets of farmed fish.
PAH | Atlantic salmon | Rainbow trout | Arctic char | LOQ |
| Samples | 65 | 5 | 1 | |
5-methylchrysene | #Values | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.09 - 0.13 |
Max | LOQ | LOQ | LOQ | |
Benz(a)anthracene | #Values | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0.09 - 0.13 |
Max | 0.2 | LOQ | LOQ | |
Benzo(a)pyrene | #Values | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.09 - 0.13 |
Max | LOQ | LOQ | LOQ | |
Benzo(b)fluoranthene | #Values | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.09 - 0.13 |
Max | LOQ | LOQ | LOQ | |
Benzo(c)fluorine | #Values | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0.09 - 0.13 |
Max | 0.2 | LOQ | LOQ | |
Benzo(ghi)perylene | #Values | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.09 - 0.13 |
Max | LOQ | LOQ | LOQ | |
Benzo(j)fluoranthene | #Values | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.09 - 0.13 |
Max | LOQ | LOQ | LOQ | |
Benzo(k)fluoranthene | #Values | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.09 - 0.13 |
Max | LOQ | LOQ | LOQ | |
Chrysene | #Values | 8 | 0 | 0 | 0.09 - 0.13 |
Max | 0.3 | LOQ | LOQ | |
Cyclopenta(cd)pyrene | #Values | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0.09 - 0.13 |
Max | 0.1 | LOQ | LOQ | |
Dibenz(ah)anthracene | #Values | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.09 - 0.13 |
Max | LOQ | LOQ | LOQ | |
Dibenzo(a,e)pyrene | #Values | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.44 – 0.66 |
Max | LOQ | LOQ | LOQ | |
Dibenzo(a,h)pyrene | #Values | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.44 – 0.66 |
Max | LOQ | LOQ | LOQ | |
Dibenzo(a,i)pyrene | #Values | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.44 – 0.66 |
Max | LOQ | LOQ | LOQ | |
Dibenzo(a,l)pyrene | #Values | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.44 – 0.66 |
Max | LOQ | LOQ | LOQ | |
Indeno(1,2,3,-cd)pyrene | #Values | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.09 - 0.13 |
Max | LOQ | LOQ | LOQ | |
3.3.11 - Ethoxyquin
EQ and EQDM levels were measured in 74 pooled fillet samples. The samples were mostly taken from Atlantic salmon, but also samples from rainbow trout and Atlantic char were included (Table 3.7 of EQ and EQDM was calculated as upper bound, using the numerical LOQ values for measurements below LOQ.
For salmon samples, the median level of the sum of EQ&EQDM was 0.11 mg/ kg ww. Rainbow trout and trout contained EQ&EQDM at a median concentration of 0.09 mg/kg ww. One sample of Atlantic char was analysed and this sample contained 0.04 mg EQ&EQDM/ kg ww .
The maximum values of EQ and EQDM were 0.01 and 0.34 mg/kg ww, respectively, and were found in salmon.
Table 3.7 Ethoxyquin (mg/kg w.w.) in fillets of farmed fish.
| Atlanti salmon | Rainbow trout | Atlantic char | LOQ |
| Samples | 67 | 7 | 1 | |
EQ (mg/kg ww) | #Values | 41 | 7 | - | |
Median | 0.002 | 0.001 | LOQ | |
Max | 0.01 | 0.009 | LOQ | 0.001 |
EQDM (mg/kg ww) | #Values | 66 | 7 | 1 | |
Median | 0.11 | 0.08 | - | |
Max | 0.34 | 0.15 | 0.04 | 0.005 |
Sum EQ&EQDM (mg/kg ww) UB | | | | | |
Median | 0.11 | 0.09 | - | |
Max | 0.34 | 0.15 | 0.04 | |
4 - Discussion
4.1 - Unauthorized substances
No residues of unauthorized substances were detected in any of the analysed samples.
4.2 - Veterinary drugs
Most samples reviewed in this report are from fillets of farmed fish. However, as the liver has a central function in the distribution and elimination of veterinary drugs, liver samples were analysed for antibiotics. Even though the bioassay used for the antibacterial agents is less sensitive than the chemical analytical methods, the higher concentrations of antibacterial agents in liver compared to fillet enhance the ability to detect any residues. Moreover, the ability of the bioassay to detect a wider range of antibiotics than the more specific chemical methods renders the method useful for screening purposes. Any positive detection by the inhibition assay is verified by chemical analysis of the corresponding fillet sampled from the same fish. In accordance with previous results from the last years, no residues of antibiotics or endoparasitic agents were detected.
Residues of the anti sea lice agents emamectin and lufenuron were found in three and one sample, respectively. The percentage of positive samples for anti sea lice agents were lower than in 2017. Residues of emamectin have also been detected previously; however, this is the first time residues of lufenuron has been detected in this surveillance. All samples had levels below the MRL.
4.3 - Contaminants
Although the level of dioxins and dl-PCBs decreased from 2006 until 2012, reflecting the increased inclusion of vegetable ingredients in the feed, the level appears to have stabilized at approximately 0.5 ng TEQ/kg w.w. in farmed Atlantic salmon. This level has been stable from 2012 up to, and including, 2018.
No environmental contaminants were found above the EU maximum limits (ML) in 2018, for the contaminants where MLs have been implemented. However, the EUs MLs for food are not toxicologically based, but derived from the ALARA (as low as reasonably achievable) principle, with the aim to prevent those commodities with the highest contaminant levels to reach the market.
To evaluate the toxicological relevancy of the different contaminant levels, tolerable intake values are implemented. The Tolerable weekly intake (TWI) estimates the amount per kg body weight (bw) of a potentially harmful chemical that can be ingested per week over a lifetime without appreciable health risk. The TWI is a threshold level set by international risk assessment bodies, such as WHO and JECFA, or EFSA in Europe. The compound group with the strongest impact on restricting the recommended intake of fish is the dioxins and dl-PCBs. The TWI for dioxins and dl-PCBs was re-evaluated by EFSA in 2018 (EFSA 2018), and a new TWI of 2 pg WHO-TEQ/kg bw was established. This TWI is 7-fold lower than the previous TWI set in 2001 by the Scientific Committee of Food (SCF, 2001). Importantly, the new TWI ascertains the risk of dioxins and dl-PCBs, not the combined risk and benefit of fish consumption. Therefore, the NFSA has commissioned a new report from the Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food and Environment (VKM) on the risk and benefit of seafood consumption
4.4 - Ethoxyquin
Due to limited data on toxicity of EQ and its metabolites, a precautional maximum residue level (MRL) at the limit of analytical quantification (0.05 mg/kg), is currently applied in the EU (EFSA 2005). The list of products where a MRL has been established includes products of animal origin, but no MRL has yet been defined for fish. Measurements of fillet from Atlantic salmon, rainbow trout and Atlantic char do not show an exceedance of this level for EQ alone. However, EQ is metabolized quickly in salmon and accumulates mainly as EQDM in the edible parts of the fish. The median concentration of the sum EQ&EQDM exceeds the currently set precautional MRL value. Yet, with the measured level, a daily intake of one kg of salmon is still considered acceptable without appreciable health risks based on the currently applied ADI established by JECFA in 2005. A risk assessment of ethoxyquin by EFSA is currently in progress.
5 - Conclusion
No substances with anabolic effect were detected in any of the samples analysed.
None of the veterinary drugs were detected at levels exceeding the MRL established for fish. Emamectin or lufenuron were detected in a total of four samples; but the measured levels were below their respective MRLs.
For contaminants, no samples exceeded the EUs maximum limits, where such limits have been established (sum dioxins, sum dioxins and dl-PCBs, PCB-6, mercury, lead and cadmium).
6 - Advice
The new TWI for dioxins and dl-PCBs of 2 pg WHO-TEQ/kg bw ascertains risk only, and a holistic risk-benefit perspective is not considered. We therefore support the decision by the NFSA to commission a new report from VKM concerning the risk and benefit of fish consumption.
7 - Tables
Table 7.1. Inorganic arsenic and methylmercury in fillets of farmed fish
| | Atlantic Salmon | Rainbow trout | LOQ |
| N | 19 | 1 | |
Inorganic arsenic (µg/kg w.w.) | #Values | 0 | 0 | |
Median | - | - | |
Max | LOQ | LOQ | 2-3 |
Methyl-mercury (mg Hg/kg w.w.) | #Values | 19 | 1 | |
Median | 0.020 | - | |
Max | 0.060 | 0.019 | 0.001 |
Table 7.2. PFCs (µg/kg w.w.) in fillets of farmed fish
Compound | Atlantic Salmon | Rainbow trout | Max value | LOQ |
PFBA | 70 | 3 | | 1.0 |
PFBS | 1.0 |
PFDA | 0.2 |
PFDoDA | 0.2 |
PFDS | 0.2 |
PFHpA | 0.2 |
PFHxA | 0.5 |
PFHxS | 1.0 |
PFNA | 0.2 |
PFOA | 0.4 |
PFOS | 0.2 |
PFOSA | 0.5 |
PFTeDA | 0.2 |
PFTrDA | 0.2 |
PFUdA | 0.2 |
Table 7.3. Summery of analytical methods
Group of substances | Analyte1 | Method | LOD (µg/kg w.w.) | LOQ (µg/kg w.w.) | Level of action (µg/kg w.w.) | Laboratory |
A1 Stilbenes | Diethylstilbestrol | LC-MS/MS | 1 | | Presence | Eurofins |
Dienestrol | 1 |
Hexestrol | 1 |
β-Estradiol | 1 |
α-Estradiol | 1 |
Estriol | 1 |
Estrone | 1 |
Ethinyl estradiol | 1 |
A3 Steroids | α-nandrolon | LC-MS/MS | 1 | | Presence | Eurofins |
β-nandrolon | 1 |
α-trenbolon | 1 |
β-trenbolon | 1 |
Trenbolone-acetate | 2 |
16-Hydroxy stanozolol | 1 |
α -Boldenone | 1 |
Boldenone | 1 |
Chlor-Testosterone (Clostebol) | 1 |
Epitestosterone | 1 |
Methyl-Boldenone (Dianabol) | 1 |
Methyltestosterone | 1 |
Nortestosterone/ Nandrolone | 1 |
Stanozolol | 1 |
Testosterone | 1 |
Testosterone-propionate | 2 |
A6 Annex IV substances | Chloramphenicol | LC-MS/MS | 0.25 | | Presence (MRPL = 0.3) | IMR |
Metronidazole | LC-MS/MS | 0.3 | | Presence (MRPL = 3.0) |
Hydroxy-metronidazole | 2.0 | |
Nitrofuran AOZ | LC-MS/MS | 0.5 | | Presence (MRPL =1.0) |
Nitrofuran AHD | 0.6 | | Presence (MRPL =1.0) |
Nitrofuran AMOZ | 0.4 | | Presence (MRPL =1.0) |
Nitrofuran SEM | 0.5 | | Presence (MRPL= 1.0) |
B1 Antibacterial Substances Micro-biological method | Quinolones | 3-plate Screening Method2 | 200 | | 100-600 | IMR |
Tetracyclines | 200 | | 100 |
Amphenicols | 200 | | 1000 |
Sulfonamides | 400 | | 100 |
B1 Antibacterial substances Chemical method | Oxolinic acid | LC-MS/MS | | 40 | 100 | IMR |
Flumequine | 40 | 600 |
Enrofloxacin | 10 | 100 |
Ciprofloxacin | 10 | 100 |
Trimethoprim | 2 | 50 |
Oxytetracycline | LC-MS/MS | | 30 | 100 | Eurofins |
Florfenicol | LC-MS/MS | | 0.5 | 1000 | IMR |
B2a Anthelmintics | Praziquantel | LC-MS/MS | | 1 | n.a. | IMR/ Eurofins |
Fenbendazole | LC-MS/MS | | 1 | n.a. |
Emamectin | LC-MS/MS | | 2-10 | 100 |
Diflubenzuron | LC-MS/M | | 1-10 | 1000 |
Teflubenzuron | 1-50 | 500 |
Hexaflumuron | 1-50 | 500 |
Lufenuron | 1-50 | 1350 |
Ivermectin | LC-MS/M | 2 | n.a. | Eurofins |
Cypermethrin | GC-MS | | 5 | 50 |
Deltamethrin | 10 | 10 |
Isoeugenol3 | GC-FID | | 50 | 6000 |
B3a Organo-chlorine compounds | Dioxins and dlPCB | HRGC-HRMS | | 0.0001-0.1 ng TEQ/kg | 6.5 ng TEQ/kg | IMR |
PCB-6 | GC-MS GC-MS/MS | | 0.004 – 0.5 | 75 |
Pesticides | HRGC-HRMS | | 0.003-0.8 | n.a. | Eurofins |
B3b Organo-phosphorus compounds | Azametiphos | LC-MS/MS | | 10 | n.a. | Eurofins |
Dichlorvos |
Chlorpyriphos Chlorpyrifos-methyl | GC-MS | | 5 | n.a. |
Pirimiphos-methyl Pirimiphos-ethyl | | 10 | n.a. |
B3c Chemical elements | Lead | ICP-MS | | 0.005- 0.01 mg/kg | 0.3 mg/kg | IMR |
Cadmium | | 0.001- 0.002 mg/kg | 0.05 mg/kg. |
Arsenic | | 0.003 mg/kg | n.a. |
Mercury | | 0.002 mg/kg | 0.5 mg/kg |
Inorganic arsenic | LC-ICP-MS | | 4-6 | n.a. |
Methylmercury | GC-ICP-MS | | 1 | n.a. |
Tributyltin | GC-ICP-MS | | 0.3-0.5 | n.a. |
B3d Mycotoxins | Beauvericin, Enniatin A, A1, B and B1 | LC-MS/MS | | 10 | n.a. | Eurofins |
B3e, dyes | Malachite green | LC-MS/MS | 0.15 | | Presence (MRPL=2) | IMR |
Leuco malachite green | 0.15 | |
Crystal violet | 0.30 | | Presence |
Leuco crystal violet | 0.15 | | Presence |
Brilliant green | 0.15 | | Presence |
B3f, others | PBDE | GC-MS | | 0.003-0.009 | n.a. | IMR |
HBCD | LC-MS/MS | | 0.006-0.01 | n.a. | Eurofins |
TBBPA | GC-MS | | 0.03-0.2 | n.a. | Eurofins |
PAH | GC-MS/MS | | 0.5-1.0 | n.a. | IMR |
PFC | LC-MS/MS | | 0.5-13 | n.a. | IMR |
Ethoxyquin | HPLC-FLD | | 0.001 | n.a. | IMR |
Ethoxyquin dimer | 0.005 | n.a. |
1 All methods used muscle as sample matrix except for microbiological methods for antibacterial substances (B1), were liver was used 2 Only screening method, positive results have to be confirmed by a chemical method. |
Table 7.4. Calculation of sums for certain pesticides.
Sum | Substances included in the sum | Conversion factor |
DDT (sum of p,p-DDT, o,p-DDT, p,p-DDD, o,p-DDD, p,p-DDE,and o,p-DDE expressed as DDT) | op-DDT | 1 |
pp-DDT | 1 |
op-DDD | 1.108 |
pp-DDD | 1.108 |
op-DDE | 1.115 |
pp-DDE | 1.115 |
Endosulfan (sum of alpha- and beta-isomers and endosulfan-sulphate expressed as endosulfan) | alpha-endosulfan | 1 |
beta-endosulfan | 1 |
endosulfan sulphate | 0.962 |
Aldrin and dieldrin (Aldrin and dieldrin combined expressed as dieldrin) | dieldrin | 1 |
aldrin | 1.044 |
Chlordane (Sum of cis- and trans-isomers and oxychlordane expressed as chlordane) | trans-chlordane | 1 |
cis-chlordane | 1 |
oxychlordane | 0.967 |
Heptachlor (sum of heptachlor and heptachlor epoxide expressed as heptachlor) | heptachlor | 1 |
trans-heptachlor epoxide | 0.959 |
cis-heptachlor epoxide | 0.959 |
Toxaphene (sum of toxaphene 26, toxaphene 50 and toxaphene 62) | Toxaphene 26 | 1 |
Toxaphene 50 | 1 |
Toxaphene 62 | 1 |
8 - Referances
Berntssen, M. H. G., Julshamn, K., Lundebye, A. K. (2010). Chemical contaminants in aquafeeds and Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) following the use of traditional- versus alternative feed ingredients. Chemosphere 78: 637-646.
Berntssen, M. H. G., Maage A., Julshamn, K., Oeye, B. E., Lundebye, A. K. (2011). Carry-over of dietary organochlorine pesticides, PCDD/Fs, PCBs, and brominated flame retardants to Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) fillets. Chemosphere 83: 95-103.
Berdikova Bohne, V. J., Hove, H., & Hamre, K. (2007). Simultaneous quantitative determination of the synthetic antioxidant ethoxyquin and its major metabolite in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar, L), ethoxyquin dimer, by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection. Journal of AOAC International, 90(2), 587-597.
Chan, D., Tarbin, J. A., Stubbings, G., Kay, J., & Sharman, M. (2012). Analysis of incurred crystal violet in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.): comparison between the analysis of crystal violet as an individual parent and leucocrystal violet and as total crystal violet after oxidation with 2, 3-dichloro-5, 6-dicyanobenzoquinone. Food Additives & Contaminants: Part A, 29, 66-72.
CRL (2007). CRL guidance paper (7 december 2007) CRLs view on state of the art analytical methods for national residue control plans.
EFSA (2004) Opinion of the Scientific Panel on Contaminants in the Food Chain on a request from the Commission to assess the health risks to consumers associated with exposure to organotins in foodstuffs.
EMA (2013) European public MRL assessment report (EPMAR) for lufenuron (fin fish), EMA/CVMP/651740/2013
EU (1996). Council Directive 96/23/EC on measures to monitor certain substances and residues thereof in live animals and animal products.
EU (2002). 2002/657/EC: Commission Decision of 12 August 2002 implementing Council Directive 96/23/EC concerning the performance of analytical methods and the interpretation of results
EU (2006). Commission regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 of 19 December 2006 setting maximum levels for certain contaminants in foodstuffs.
EU (2010). Commission Regulation (EU) No. 37/2010 on pharmacologically active substances and their classification regarding maximum residue limits in foodstuffs of animal origin.
EU (2011). Commission regulation (EU) No 835/2011 of 19 August 2011 amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 as regards maximum levels for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in foodstuffs.
EU (2011). Commission Regulation (EU) No. 1259/2011 amending Regulation (EC) No. 1881/2006 as regards maximum levels for dioxins, dioxin-like PCBs and non dioxin-like PCBs in foodstuffs.
EU (2014). Commission implementing regulation (EU) No 967/2014 of 12 September 2014 amending Regulation (EU) No 37/2010, as regards the substance ‘lufenuron’
European Commission, Health & Consumer Protection Directorate-General, Scientific Committee on Food (2001).Opinion of the SFC on the risk assessment of dioxins and dioxin-like PCBs in food. [Update based on new scientific information available since the adoption of the the SCF opinion of 22nd November 2000. Adopted 30 May 2001.
European commission directorate-general for health and food safety (2015). Safety of the Food Chain Pesticides and biocides. SANTE/11945/2015.
Hamre, L. A., Lunestad, B. T., et al. (2011). An evaluation of the duration of efficacy of emamectin benzoate in the control of Caligus curtus Muller infestations in Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua). Journal of Fish Diseases 34: 453-457.
Johnsen, C. A., Hagen, Ø., Adler, M., Jönsson, E., Kling, P., Bickerdike, R., Solberg, C., Björnsson, B. T., Bendiksen, E.Å. (2011). "Effects of feed, feeding regime and growth rate on flesh quality, connective tissue and plasma hormones in farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). Aquaculture 318: 343-354.
Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (2015). Summary and Conclusions of the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives and Contaminants (JECFA).81st meeting on Veterinary Drug Residues in Food.
Julshamn, K., Maage, A., Norli, H. S., Grobecker, K. H., Jorhem, L., Fecher, P. (2007). Determination of arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and lead by inductively coupled plasma/mass spectrometry in foods after pressure digestion: NMKL1 interlaboratory study. Journal of Aoac International 90: 844-856.
Samuelsen, O. B., Lunestad, B. T., Farestveit, E., Grefsrud, E. S., Hannisdal, R., Holmelid, B., Tjensvoll, T., Agnalt, A. L. (2014). Mortality and deformities in European lobster (Homarus gammarus) juveniles exposed to the anti-parasitic drug teflubenzuron. Aquatic Toxicology 149: 8-15.
Shiomi, K. (1994). Arsenic in marine organisms: chemical forms and toxicological aspects. Advances in environmental science and technology-New York: 261.
VKM (2014). Benefit-risk assessment of fish and fish products in the Norwegian diet – an update.
Scientific Opinion of the Scientific Steering Committee. Norway. ISBN: 978-82-8259-159-1.
Ørnsrud, R., Arukwe, A., Bohne, V., Pavlikova, N., & Lundebye, A. K. (2011). Investigations on the metabolism and potentially adverse effects of ethoxyquin dimer, a major metabolite of the synthetic antioxidant ethoxyquin in salmon muscle. Journal of food protection, 74(9), 1574-1580.