Tag: Skipjack tuna

While often confused and used interchangeably, skipjack and bonito are not the same species of fish. Despite their close familial relationship within the mackerel and tuna family (Scombridae), they have distinct physical characteristics, habitats, and culinary applications that set them apart. This guide will clear up the confusion and help you confidently distinguish between these two popular seafood choices.

According to the Marine Stewardship Council, skipjack accounts for 57% of the worldwide tuna catch, making it the most common species found in cans. This widespread availability is the key to understanding what is the difference between light tuna and regular tuna.

According to the FDA, certain groups should limit their canned albacore consumption to just one serving per week due to mercury levels, but canned light tuna is a "best choice" you can eat more frequently. Knowing what's the healthiest type of tuna to eat depends on balancing mercury content with beneficial nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids.

Smaller tuna species like skipjack generally have lower mercury levels than larger ones, according to a 2025 study. Knowing what is the cleanest tuna to eat is vital, especially for vulnerable groups like pregnant women and children. Understanding mercury accumulation is the first step toward a healthier choice.

Over 70% of the canned tuna sold in the U.S. is skipjack, yet many consumers don't know the key differences between this and what is simply labeled as 'regular' tuna, which is often albacore or yellowfin. Understanding these distinctions can help you make an informed choice for your next meal.

According to FDA data, canned albacore tuna contains nearly three times the average mercury level of canned light (skipjack) tuna. This significant difference is the key takeaway for anyone asking: is skipjack tuna lower in mercury than albacore?

According to NOAA Fisheries, skipjack tuna do not have scales on most of their body, only on a thick band behind their head. This article investigates the complex question of whether skipjack tuna is considered 'clean' or 'unclean' across different religious dietary laws and examines modern definitions related to health and environmental sustainability.

Canned white albacore tuna can contain almost three times more mercury than the smaller skipjack tuna used in canned light varieties. Knowing what type of tuna has the lowest mercury levels is crucial for making informed and healthier seafood choices that minimize your exposure to this heavy metal.

According to the Marine Stewardship Council, almost all the tuna we eat is caught from the wild. This includes skipjack tuna, which is the most abundant and commonly consumed tuna species globally, making it a wild-caught product rather than a farmed one.

According to the FDA and EPA, canned light tuna, which is most often skipjack, is categorized as a "Best Choice" for consumption due to its low mercury content. But is skipjack tuna safe to eat mercury? This article breaks down the facts to help you understand your options.