TUNA AND CONSUMPTION ADVICE

In view of the high levels of mercury in tuna, shark, swordfish and marlin, Health Canada has created guidelines as to the amount of these fish that is safe to eat. It is of particular concern for young children and women who plan to become pregnant, who are pregnant and women who are breastfeeding. Moreover, there is greater concern with consumption of fresh and frozen tuna and a lesser concern with tinned tuna but restrictions have been placed on all. Light chunk tuna has less mercury than albacore tuna and both have less than fresh and frozen tuna.

Health Effects:
Mercury can interfere in brain and nervous system development in a fetus and exposure to high levels may cause mental retardation, cerebral palsy, deafness, blindness, delayed walking, shortened attention span and learning disabilities. In adults, exposure to large amounts of mercury can affect fertility, blood pressure regulation, memory loss, tremors, vision loss and may be associated with heart disease.

Consumption Guidelines:
Tinned Albacore tuna Fresh/Frozen Tuna
(and shark, marlin, swordfish)
Pregnant women 300g/wk 150g/month
(and lactating)
Children 1-4 yrs 75g/wk 75g/month
Children 5-11 yrs 150g/wk 125g/month
Teens and Adults no restriction no restriction

No consumption restrictions have been placed on Light chunk tuna which contain other types of tuna such as Yellowfin, Skipjack and Tongol which are lower in mercury.

It is also important to note that by reducing your intake you can reduce the amount of mercury in your body but it can take up to 6 months.

The Bottom Line: Eating fish twice a week will provide you with omega 3 fats that are terrific for your health. Consider eating fresh and frozen tuna less often and eat more char, herring, trout, salmon, mackerel and sardines.