When the toxic compounds in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are inhaled, they may damage our brain and organs. In more severe cases, these compounds may cause cancer. This is particularly worrying for the people who live near the shores whenever an oil spill strikes near the shores. The people particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of VOCs also include the fish farmers, boaters, and those deployed to respond and cleanup.
The toxic compounds that were consumed by fishes and shrimps can be transferred to us when we consume such seafood. Even if the seafood does not have any significant petroleum smell or taste, the chemicals might have already been embedded within the tissues of the seafood, so we can never be certain.