by Hg has intensified the search for analytical methods that require
minimal sample preparation and provide good analytical sensitivity.
According to the EFSA Scientific Panel on Contaminants in the Food
Chain for dietary exposure to inorganic mercury, 20% of total mercury
in fish, 50% in seafood other than fish and 100% in other foods are in
the form of inorganic mercury [8]. In addition, the contribution of
methylmercury to total mercury is typically 80–100% in fish and
50–80% in seafood other than fish. In other foods, mercury is presumed
to be present as inorganic mercury [8]. Chemical products destined for
agriculture can be introduced into food chains from different sources
and an inadequate exposition of animals to environmental contamination,
or to heavy metals as mercury, antibiotics, veterinary drugs,
dioxins, and pesticides can lead to residue accumulation in edible tissues
[9]. In addition, the animals may be exposed to airborne mercury
and to deposited particulates in soils and plants that may contaminate
the water or feeds [5,6,10]. Furthermore, inadequate exposition of animals
to Hg can lead to accumulation of this contaminant in animal tissues
destined to consumption [9,11]. Thus, meat producers and
industry must ensure that their food products are not contaminated
with mercury and that levels of this substance are below the maximum
residue limits — MRLs