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Chemical characterisation of Nephrops norvegicus from Portuguese coast
Author(s) -
Lourenço Helena M,
Anacleto Patrícia,
Afonso Cláudia,
Martins Maria F,
Carvalho Maria L,
Lino Ana R,
Nunes Maria L
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
journal of the science of food and agriculture
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.782
H-Index - 142
eISSN - 1097-0010
pISSN - 0022-5142
DOI - 10.1002/jsfa.3754
Subject(s) - nephrops norvegicus , european union , crustacean , chemistry , food science , zoology , composition (language) , environmental chemistry , chemical composition , biology , fishery , decapoda , business , linguistics , philosophy , organic chemistry , economic policy
BACKGROUND: Among seafood products, crustaceans are an important group owing to their nutritional benefits and high market value. The aim of this study was to evaluate the proximate composition as well as essential and non‐essential elements in the edible muscle of Nephrops norvegicus (Norway lobster). RESULTS: The studied crustacean showed a high protein level of about 210 g kg −1 and a mineral level of about 24 g kg −1 . The pattern for the elements studied was Cl > Na > K > P > S > Ca > Mg > Br > Fe > Sr ≈ Zn > Cu > Mn > Rb > Se > Ni > Cr. Regarding non‐essential elements, the average total Hg content was 0.40 mg kg −1 , but two samples exceeded the legal limit set by the European Union (EU) for Hg in crustaceans (0.50 mg kg −1 ). The levels of Pb and Cd found in all samples were below the EU limits (0.50 mg kg −1 for both metals). CONCLUSION: Nephrops norvegicus is a good source of protein and contains most minerals at levels sufficient to satisfy the dietary reference intake. The amounts of Pb and Cd are not a concern. Hg levels indicate some contamination; however, taking into account the type of consumption of this species, it can be concluded that this does not represent a risk in terms of the human diet. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry