A preliminary survey on the presence of ciguatoxins (CTXs) in fishery products sold in Italy: An initial step towards the proper assessment of an emerging EU risk

Ciguatera poisoning is a food-borne disease related to the consumption of finfish from areas endemic for ciguatoxins (CTXs). Mislabeling of fishery products can enhance consumer's exposure to this hazard by hiding the presence of CTXs vector species. In this study, we identified the main CTXs vector fish families (CVF) and the FAO areas at CTXs risk. Market products from CVF and sourced from CTXs risk areas were collected in Italy, molecularly authenticated to detect potential mislabeling cases, and then analysed for CTXs using a two-tier detection method (cell-based assay and mass spectrometry). Additionally, the official lists of seafood trade names (OL) from EU countries associated with ciguatera poisoning (CP) outbreaks linked to imported products were evaluated to assess a possible correlation between market species and CP risk. The Italian OL was also included. A total of 24 CVF and four FAO areas were selected. Overall, 51 market products were collected. The availability of CVF products from FAO areas at CTXs risk was limited in the Italian market. Molecular authentication revealed 16 cases of mislabeling (31.4%) in products from Sparidae, Lethrinidae and Epinephelidae. All samples analysed tested negative for CTXs. The OL analysis highlighted that a revision to improve correspondence between trade names and species would be beneficial also in the light of a proper risk assessment. Although no CP outbreaks have been reported in Italy by far, and no CTXs were detected in this study, the implementation of targeted programs to prevent and manage CP risk should be considered. This is particularly important because i) mislabeling remains prevalent in products imported to Italy, and ii) future indigenous outbreaks due to climate changes should be anticipated.