Small-Scale Depuration for Heavy Metal Removal in Green Mussels and Blood Cockles: Implications for Seafood Safety

Depuration treatment using clean, recirculating seawater for periods ranging from 3 to 7 days effectively reduced heavy metal concentrations in green mussels (Perna viridis) and blood mussels (Anadara granosa) to levels below the Standard. Cd decreased by up to 41% after 7 days. Lead (Pb) levels in P. viridis decreased from 2.01 to 0.73 mg/kg over 7 days of depuration. In A. granosa, Pb concentrations declined from 5.87 to 0.99 mg/kg within the same period. Copper (Cu) levels dropped significantly, from 8.05 to 1.58 mg/kg after 7 days. These findings indicate that small-scale depuration units effectively lower Cd, Pb, and Cu concentrations in green and blood mussels to levels below Standard, demonstrating both their practical value for improving seafood safety and their academic significance in advancing sustainable post-harvest treatment methods. This method offers great potential for enhancing seafood safety, supporting food security, and improving the marketability of seafood, while also demonstrating the feasibility of small-scale depuration as a sustainable approach applicable in developing regions.