Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in blue crabs from the Adriatic Sea and consumer safety evaluation

The blue crab is one of the most invasive alien species in the Mediterranean Sea. Its remarkable surge in availability suggests an imminent increase in consumption. However, blue crabs are vulnerable to contamination by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known to accumulate in the food chain and pose health risks to humans. Data on PFAS contamination levels in blue crabs are a few. This study investigates 26 PFAS in 113 blue crabs by UHPLC-HRMS. Results revealed higher concentrations in cephalothorax than in claws. PFHpA, PFHxS, PFOA, PFNA, PFOS, PFUnDA, PFDoDA, PFTrDA, PFHpS, and PFBA were among the most detected PFAS. Total PFAS mean concentration ranged from 0.65 to 2.61 ng g-1 ww. Three crabs exceeded maximum residue limits for PFOA, PFNA, and PFHxS. Statistical analyses suggested a correlation between contaminants presence and crab size. PCA highlighted the weight as a potential predictor of PFOS concentration. PFAS intake evaluation showed no risk for consumers.The Evaluation of twenty-six per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in blue crabs from the Adriatic Sea showed higher concentrations in cephalothorax than in claws. Seventeen molecules were detected. Weight was identified as a potential PFOS concentration predictor. PFAS intake evaluation showed no risk for consumers.