Risk-benefit assessment of five underutilized fish species in Norway

Risks and benefits of increasing the consumption of five underutilized demersal fish species in Norway by applying the Benefit-Risk Analysis for Foods (BRAFO)-tiered approach were assessed. A reference scenario with zero intake was opposed to two different alternative scenarios of 250 (AS1) and 450 g (AS2) per week. Health-benefit vs. health-risk calculations were computed. Moreover, tolerable weekly intake and recommended weekly intake were considered for the general public and women of childbearing age. In addition, the molar ratio of Selenium and Mercury (Se:Hg) and the Health Benefit Value of Selenium (HBV_Se) were calculated and considered. Results suggest that a consumption of 250 g, when combined with a weekly portion of fatty fish, is the optimal intake scenario for adequate polyunsaturated fatty acids. Flounder and megrim feature the significantly highest eicosapentaenoic+doxosahexaenoic acid values with 678 and 606 mg in AS1. A surplus of selenium was detected in all five species, with flounder and lemon sole showing significantly highest Se:Hg (21; 22). Moreover, no detrimental effects were found due to an increased contaminant intake among those eating fish. Consequently, results revealed a net beneficial health effect by increasing the consumption of the five underutilized fish species. Thus, their consumption can be recommended.