The distribution of organophosphate esters in common seafoods from southeast China and its exposure risk assessment

This study investigated the distribution of 15 organophosphate esters (OPEs) in common seafood samples (marine fishes and bivalves) collected from four coastal cities (Ningbo, Wenzhou, Taizhou, and Zhoushan) in southeast China, and assessed the associated human exposure risks. The results showed that 9 OPEs were detected, with total concentrations (ΣOPEs) ranging from 4.04 to 257.08 μg/kg wet weight (ww), with mean value of 51.79 μg/kg ww. Chlorinated OPEs (TCEP, TCiPP, TDCiPP) and alkyl-OPEs (TMP, TEP, TEHP) were the dominant components, with TCEP showing a 100% detection rate. ΣOPE mean concentrations varied among species, with razor clams (88.1 μg/kg ww) and turbot (66.53 μg/kg ww) exhibiting higher levels. Chlorinated OPEs (TCEP, TCiPP, and TDCiPP) levels in bivalve samples were significantly higher than those in fish samples ( p