Non-dioxin like polychlorinated biphenyls in mackerel (Scomber scombrus) available on the Serbian market

Abstract

Mackerel is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, but this fish may be contaminated with environmental pollutants. The aim of this study was to evaluate concentrations of non-dioxin like polychlorinated biphenyls (ndl-PCBs) in 160 samples of mackerel available on the Serbian market. Average and maximum ndl-PCB concentrations were 7.9 ng/g and 74 ng/g, respectively. A higher average level of ndl-PCBs was found in mackerel from Spain, but this was still three times lower than the permitted level. We conclude that levels of ndl-PCBs in mackerel available on the Serbian market are acceptable.