The residues and health risk assessment of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in Pheretima (an earthworm-derived traditional medicine) from southeastern China

Abstract

Paper summary generated by OpenAI: This study investigates the residues and health risks of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in Pheretima, an earthworm-derived traditional Chinese medicine, marking the first comprehensive analysis of PCB exposure from this source. A total of 77 samples were analyzed for 45 PCB congeners, revealing that all samples contained PCBs, with concentrations ranging from 0.532 to 25.2 µg/kg. The predominant congener was CB-11, contributing significantly to the total PCB load. The estimated daily intake of PCBs was found to be low, indicating minimal non-carcinogenic risks associated with Pheretima consumption, although some samples showed potential risks due to the endocrine-disrupting properties of PCBs. These findings underscore the importance of monitoring PCB levels in traditional medicines and suggest that Pheretima could serve as a bioindicator for PCB pollution.