Vol. 78 2026

ARTICLES

А Review of Lead and Cadmium Accumulation in Organs of Species from the Cervidae Family

Desislava Gradinarska-Yanakieva1, Nikol Pashalieva2,*, Polya Avramova2, Stoyan Stoyanov2 & Mihail Chervenkov2,3

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1Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction “Acad. Kiril Bratanov” – Bulgarian Academy of Sciences;
E-mail: d.gradinarska@ibir.bas.bg
*,2University of Forestry; E-mail: nikol.8161821@abv.bg, polya_avramova01@abv.bg, stoyani@ltu.bg
3Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research – Bulgarian Academy of Sciences; E-mail: vdmchervenkov@abv.bg

https://doi.org/10.71424/azb78.3.003012

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Abstract

Venison is gaining popularity, not only among hunters, but also among health-conscious consumers and culinary enthusiasts, due to its health-promoting properties and distinctive flavour. This review aimed to assess the potential health risks associated with deer meat and edible offal consumption through compiling the reported concentrations of lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) in the muscle tissue, liver, and kidneys of red deer (Cervus elaphus Linnaeus, 1758), roe deer (Capreolus capreolus Linnaeus, 1758), and fallow deer (Dama dama Linnaeus, 1758). Additionally, we aimed to examine possible differences in heavy metal accumulation with respect to age, sex, and habitat location and to compare the findings with the permissible limits established by European regulations. A review of the existing research published between 2014 and 2024 was conducted. Data on Pb and Cd levels in meat, liver, and kidneys of the three specified Cervidae species, as well as deer age, sex, and habitat proximity to industrial sites, were summarized. The analysis revealed varying levels of Pb and Cd in different organs and deer species. Differences in heavy metal concentrations were observed in relation to both the age of the animals and the proximity of their habitat to polluted areas. Some reported concentrations exceeded permissible limits, indicating a potential health hazard in the case of human consumption. The position in the food chain of the Cervidae family species makes them susceptible to accumulation of various environmental pollutants in their organisms and can be used as bioindicators for monitoring heavy metal contamination. These findings highlight the major issue of Pb and Cd bioaccumulation in deer’s organs, emphasizing the need for effective health risk assessments related to the consumption of game meat and edible offal. Environmental monitoring and the implementation of appropriate strategies against heavy metal pollution are crucial for preserving both wildlife and human health.

Key words

Bioaccumulation, Cadmium, Deer, Health risk assessment, Lead

How to Cite
Gradinarska-Yanakieva D., Pashalieva N., Avramova P., Stoyanov S. & Chervenkov M. 2026. А Review of Lead and Cadmium Accumulation in Organs of Species from the Cervidae Family. Acta zoologica bulgarica 78.

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