Analysis of Cadmium Content

Oct 13, 2025 by magicalceylontours.com 96 views

Introduction

Shellfish, a type of seafood, can contain heavy metal cadmium due to environmental pollution. This study aims to analyze the content of cadmium in boiled shells sold in the city of Medan and determine the safe limit of cadmium that can be consumed. The research is descriptive and uses the ARKL table method and thermo scientific inductively coupled plasma for testing heavy metals.

Methodology

In this study, 15 samples were taken from boiled shell traders spread across seven sub-districts in Medan City. Of the 15 samples, 7 samples are taken from green shells (virgin clams) and 8 samples of feather clams. The results showed that 60% of boiled clam traders were men, 40% of them were between 31 to 40 years old, and 60% of traders had education at least up to junior high school level. In addition, 40% of traders have been selling for more than 20 years, with 60% of them also take shells from the Belawan TPI area.

Analysis of Cadmium Content

Analysis of the cadmium content revealed that the highest concentration of cadmium in fur shells reached 0.095578 mg/kg, while the lowest concentration was 0,000371 mg/kg. For green shells, the highest concentration of cadmium is 0.037997 mg/kg and the lowest is 0.000646 mg/kg. Although there is a cadmium content, all the results of this test are still below the specified quality threshold.

Risk Assessment

In terms of risk, the level of risk assumption (RQ) for children and adults at the ages of 5, 10, and 15 years for green shells and fur shells indicate a value of less than 1, which means it does not exceed the quality standard limit. This shows that the boiled shells are safe for consumption to a certain extent.

Recommendations

As a recommendation, to reduce the heavy metal content in food, traders are advised to boil shells for a minimum of 45 minutes with a mixture of salt, vinegar, and lime solutions. This method can not only help reduce cadmium levels but can also increase the taste and cleanliness of shells before being presented to consumers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, although there is a cadmium content in boiled shells sold in Medan, the risk to consumer health can be minimized as long as the shells are processed properly. Education to traders and consumers about safe processing is very important to maintain public health and reduce the negative impact of heavy metals in seafood.

Limitations of the Study

This study has several limitations. Firstly, the sample size is relatively small, which may not be representative of the entire population of boiled shell traders in Medan City. Secondly, the study only analyzed the cadmium content in boiled shells and did not consider other heavy metals that may be present in the shells. Finally, the study did not investigate the impact of processing methods on the cadmium content in boiled shells.

Future Research Directions

Future research should aim to investigate the impact of processing methods on the cadmium content in boiled shells. Additionally, the study should consider other heavy metals that may be present in the shells. Furthermore, the study should aim to increase the sample size to make it more representative of the entire population of boiled shell traders in Medan City.

Implications for Public Health

The findings of this study have several implications for public health. Firstly, the study highlights the importance of proper processing of boiled shells to minimize the risk of cadmium exposure. Secondly, the study emphasizes the need for education and awareness among traders and consumers about safe processing methods. Finally, the study suggests that the government should implement regulations to ensure that boiled shells are processed safely and that the cadmium content is within the acceptable limits.

References

[1] World Health Organization. (2020). Cadmium and health.
[2] United States Environmental Protection Agency. (2020). Cadmium: General information.
[3] National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. (2020). Cadmium: Occupational exposure.
[4] Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. (2020). Cadmium in food.

Appendix

The following tables and figures are included in the appendix:

Table 1: Demographic characteristics of boiled shell traders
Table 2: Cadmium content in boiled shells
Figure 1: Risk assessment for children and adults at the ages of 5, 10, and 15 years for green shells and fur shells
Figure 2: Recommended processing method for boiled shells
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Cadmium Content in Boiled Shells ====================================================================

Q: What is cadmium and why is it a concern in food?

A: Cadmium is a toxic heavy metal that can be found in small amounts in some foods, including shellfish. It can cause a range of health problems, including kidney damage, bone disease, and certain types of cancer.

Q: How does cadmium get into boiled shells?

A: Cadmium can enter the food chain through environmental pollution, such as industrial waste and agricultural runoff. It can also be present in the water used to boil the shells.

Q: What are the health risks associated with consuming boiled shells with high cadmium levels?

A: Consuming boiled shells with high cadmium levels can increase the risk of kidney damage, bone disease, and certain types of cancer. It can also affect the nervous system and cause other health problems.

Q: How can I reduce my exposure to cadmium in boiled shells?

A: To reduce your exposure to cadmium in boiled shells, you can follow these tips:

Choose boiled shells from reputable sources that have been processed safely.
Cook the shells for a minimum of 45 minutes with a mixture of salt, vinegar, and lime solutions.
Avoid consuming boiled shells that have been stored for a long time or have been exposed to high temperatures.
Consider using a water filter that can remove cadmium and other heavy metals from the water.

Q: What are the recommended processing methods for boiled shells?

A: The recommended processing methods for boiled shells include:

Boiling the shells for a minimum of 45 minutes with a mixture of salt, vinegar, and lime solutions.
Using a water filter that can remove cadmium and other heavy metals from the water.
Storing the boiled shells in a clean and dry environment to prevent contamination.

Q: Can I still consume boiled shells if they contain cadmium?

A: While it is possible to consume boiled shells that contain cadmium, it is not recommended. Consuming boiled shells with high cadmium levels can increase the risk of health problems, including kidney damage, bone disease, and certain types of cancer.

Q: What can I do if I have already consumed boiled shells with high cadmium levels?

A: If you have already consumed boiled shells with high cadmium levels, you should:

Consult a healthcare professional for advice on how to manage any potential health problems.
Follow a healthy diet and lifestyle to reduce your exposure to cadmium and other heavy metals.
Consider using a water filter that can remove cadmium and other heavy metals from the water.

Q: How can I stay safe while consuming boiled shells?

A: To stay safe while consuming boiled shells, you should:

Choose boiled shells from reputable sources that have been processed safely.
Follow the recommended processing methods for boiled shells.
Avoid consuming boiled shells that have been stored for a long time or have been exposed to high temperatures.
Consider using a water filter that can remove cadmium and other heavy metals from the water.

Q: What can I do to support the safe consumption of boiled shells?

A: To support the safe consumption of boiled shells, you can:

Educate yourself and others about the risks associated with cadmium in boiled shells.
Choose boiled shells from reputable sources that have been processed safely.
Support policies and regulations that promote the safe processing and consumption of boiled shells.
Consider using a water filter that can remove cadmium and other heavy metals from the water.