Abstract
Seaweed is widely known for its nutrient-rich biochemical composition, mineral contents, antioxidants, and high-value medicinal ingredients, has been recognized for gastrointestinal and cardiovascular health benefits. Despite seaweed having a great demand globally, the level of heavy metal contamination in seaweed has progressively increased due to anthropogenic activities (such as agricultural runoff, oil spills, industrial and domestic waste discharge) and natural events (including volcanic emissions, wildfires, and atmospheric dust). The consequences of heavy metal accumulation in seaweed raise concerns about adverse health effects, including hormonal imbalances, neurotransmitter dysfunction, gastrointestinal disturbances, immune dysfunction, and osteoporosis. The review investigates the heavy metal occurrence across various seaweed species, highlights the global evidence, the pathway of meal exposure to humans, and potential associated health risks. While seaweed provides multifunctional nutritional value, the lack of uniform and species-specific safety standards regulations highlights the urgent need for regulatory frameworks. Implementing permissible metal limits, routine surveillance, raising awareness and further research to establish safe consumption thresholds are essential tools to safeguard public health while preserving the nutritional potential of seaweed.