Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden have developed a new packaging solution that can reduce the mercury content in canned tuna by 35%, addressing a significant health concern associated with the consumption of the fish. <\/p>\n
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The Chalmers University team has introduced a packaging system that utilises a water-based cysteine solution to interact with the fish, a method known as active packaging.<\/p>\n
This breakthrough could have a substantial impact on food safety by mitigating the risks of mercury contamination in tuna.<\/p>\n
The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified mercury as among the ten most harmful chemicals to human health.<\/p>\n
The new packaging solution could be a safer product for consumers, particularly vulnerable groups such as pregnant women and young children.<\/p>\n
The team previously considered using a silica coating to trap any mercury contained in the product.<\/p>\n
However, this proved ineffective due to the strong bond between mercury and the proteins in tuna tissue. The approach with cysteine, a sulfur-containing amino acid, however, has shown promising results in reducing mercury levels.<\/p>\n
During testing, the researchers experimented with various forms of tuna, including fresh and lab-steamed fish in fillet and mince forms and commercially available canned tuna.<\/p>\n
They found that the cysteine solution\u2019s effectiveness was directly related to the fish\u2019s exposed surface area.<\/p>\n
The most significant mercury reduction was seen in canned minced tuna, with a 35% decrease in mercury content.<\/p>\n
Chalmers University associate professor and Detoxpak project coordinator Mehdi Abdollahi said: \u201cOur study shows that there are alternative approaches to addressing mercury contamination in tuna, rather than just limiting consumption.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur goal is to improve food safety and contribute to enhanced human health, as well as to better utilise food that is currently under certain restrictions.\u201d<\/p>\n
The researchers noted a two-week maximum threshold for mercury removal, after which no further reduction was observed.<\/p>\n
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