Fishing
Protect Your Health
National Mercury Advisory
Some fish and shellfish contain high levels of mercury that may harm an unborn baby or young child’s developing nervous system. The risks depend on the amount consumed and the mercury levels in the specific species. Therefore, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) advise women who may become pregnant, pregnant women, nursing mothers, and young children to avoid certain types of fish and choose options lower in mercury.
By following these three recommendations, women and young children can enjoy the benefits of eating fish while minimizing their exposure to the harmful effects of mercury. Additionally, view the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch website for more information on eating fish sustainably.
Do not eat Shark, Swordfish, King Mackerel, or Tilefish because they contain high levels of mercury.
Check local fish advisories regarding the safety of fish caught in your local lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. If no advice is available, limit consumption of locally caught fish to 6 ounces (one average meal) per week.
Eat up to 12 ounces (2 average meals) a week of a variety of fish and shellfish that are lower in mercury. Five commonly eaten fish that are low in mercury are shrimp, canned light tuna, salmon, pollock, and catfish. Because albacore ("white") tuna has more mercury than canned light tuna, limit albacore intake to 6 ounces (one average meal) per week.