Di-n-hexyl Phthalate (DHP), a Newly Identified Contaminant in Atlantic Herring (Clupea harengus harengus) and Atlantic Mackerel (Scomber scombrus)

Abstract

The isolation and identification of di-n-hexyl phthalate, a new marine pollutant found in Atlantic herring (C. harengus harengus) and Atlantic mackerel (S. scombrus) was described. This compound was isolated from extracted lipids by a combination of gel permeation, high performance liquid and column chromatography and selective precipitation of impurities. Conclusive proof of its structure was obtained from gas chromatographic-mass spectrometric analysis and proton NWR spectroscopy. The concentrations of di-n-hexyl phthalate (17-27 .mu.g/g wet wt), which is not a major industrial phthalic acid ester, exceeded those of dibutyl and di-2-ethylhexyl phthalates, the major industrial phthalic acid esters. The possibility of selective bioaccumulation of DHP in herring and mackerel was indicated. This finding was important in view of the paucity of toxicological information concerning this compound.