7 Kinds of Fish You Should Never Eat

  1. Swordfish. Swordfish are apex predators, meaning they are at the top of the food chain. This means that they accumulate high levels of mercury as they eat smaller fish that have already accumulated mercury. Mercury is a neurotoxin that can damage the brain and nervous system, especially in children and pregnant women.
  2. Shark. Sharks are also apex predators and can contain high levels of mercury. In addition, some sharks are known to be contaminated with other toxins, such as PCBs and dioxins.
  3. King mackerel. King mackerel are another type of large fish that can contain high levels of mercury. They are also a popular fish for sport fishing, which can lead to overfishing.
  4. Tilefish. Tilefish are bottom-dwelling fish that live in deep waters. They can accumulate high levels of mercury and other pollutants from the sediment.
  5. Orange roughy. Orange roughy are long-lived fish that can live for up to 100 years. This means that they have a lot of time to accumulate mercury and other toxins.
  6. Farmed salmon. Farmed salmon are often raised in crowded conditions and fed a diet that contains high levels of antibiotics and other chemicals. These chemicals can end up in the flesh of the salmon, which can be harmful to human health.
  7. Imported shrimp. Imported shrimp are often caught using unsustainable methods that can damage the environment. They may also be contaminated with harmful bacteria or pesticides.

It is important to note that these are just general guidelines. The specific safety of a fish may vary depending on its species, where it was caught, and how it was caught. It is always best to consult with a doctor or registered dietitian before making any changes to your diet.

Here are some fish that are considered to be safe to eat:

  • Wild-caught salmon
  • Sardines
  • Anchovies
  • Cod
  • Trout
  • Tilapia (when farmed responsibly)
  • Tuna (skipjack and albacore)

When choosing fish, it is important to look for fish that are low in mercury and other contaminants. It is also important to choose fish that are sustainably caught or farmed.