To explore the dietary intake of cadmium and assess the potential risks to human health using the principle of risk assessment.Methods Monitoring data were provided by the office of Food Safety Commission, bureau of statistics, bureau of Environmental Protection and other relevant departments in Lianyungang. The cadmium dietary intake of the residents were calculated and evaluated using conventional risk assessment method. Results The cadmium concentrations in food and drinking water in Lianyungang City were qualified according to the national standards, but the cadmium concentrations of shellfish were found to exceed the national standards. The violation rate of cadmium in shellfish was 18%, the highest content was 3.75 times of the limit.Conclusion The overall cadmium intake of the residents were safe in Lianyungang City. The health impact of shellfish should be concerned among the consumption population.