Jakarta. A suspected case of food poisoning that affected dozens of students in West Kalimantan has once again raised concerns over the dangers of consuming shark meat. Health experts warn that shark meat contains hazardous toxins such as mercury and arsenic, which can lead to serious illnesses and even death.

Health expert from Surabaya, Dede Nasrullah, said one of the most dangerous toxins in shark meat is methylmercury, a compound formed from marine industrial pollutants that can accumulate in the human body.

“The mercury content in sharks is the highest compared to other fish, reaching up to 14 ppm. Its impact is wide-ranging, from nerve damage, heart disease, reduced male fertility, to Alzheimer’s,” he said on Sunday.

In addition to mercury, sharks also contain arsenic, particularly in their fins, which are often considered a luxury delicacy. Arsenic can damage the lungs, and skin, and even trigger cancer cell growth.

Research by scientists at Southern Cross University, Australia, found that arsenic levels in various shark species far exceeded safe limits. Their recommendation was clear: avoid consuming shark meat.

Other threats come from urea and lead. A study published in Tropical Conservation Science (2013) revealed that all shark species in the Pacific Ocean were contaminated with lead, which can cause headaches, seizures, and even death.

“The bigger and older a shark is, the higher the accumulation of toxins in its body. Children must not be made test subjects for such high-risk foods. The government must tighten food safety standards,” Dede said.

Previously, the viral shark meat menu served as part of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program was suspected to be the cause of food poisoning in 25 victims, consisting of one teacher and 24 elementary school students.

Meanwhile, the choice of shark meat as a menu was claimed to be part of local wisdom by the National Nutrition Agency (BGN). However, the Head of the Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG) at Mitra Mandiri 2 Kitchen, who was responsible for the meal, is expected to be dismissed.