Assessment of cobalt chloride-induced toxicological risks in carcinus aestuarii muscle and their impact on nutritional benefits for human health

Cobalt (Co2+) contamination poses potential risks to aquatic species and may alter the nutritional quality of seafood such as Carcinus aestuarii, although data on these effects remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Co2+ exposure on the fatty acids and nutritional quality of C. aestuarii muscle and to assess associated risks and benefits for human consumption. Crabs were exposed to 0, 25, 50, and 100 µg/L Co2+, and their muscle tissues were analyzed for lipid profiles. Nutritional quality and human health risk assessments indices were calculated. High Co2+ doses led to a decrease in essential polyunsaturated fatty acids and an increase in omega-6, saturated, and monounsaturated fatty acids, altering nutritional quality indices. These alterations were evidenced by the increased of AI, TI, and h/H, known to be harmful to consumer health. Although indices associated with human disease were elevated, the non-carcinogenic risk assessment showed HQ and THQ values below 1, remained within the safety limits recommended by the World Health Organization. While Co2+ exposure modifies the nutritional composition of C. aestuarii, current levels do not pose significant non-carcinogenic or carcinogenic risks to humans. Limiting consumption of crabs from cobalt-polluted environments is recommended, or alternatively, selecting nutritionally safer sources.