Tag: Tuna health risks

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), yellowfin tuna contains moderate mercury levels, classifying it as a "Good Choice" for consumption, unlike species like bigeye that are considered a "Choice to Avoid".

While nearly all fish contain trace amounts of methylmercury, a toxin that can pose health risks in high doses, the levels in tuna vary significantly by species. The answer to 'is mercury a concern with tuna?' depends heavily on what kind you choose and how often you eat it.

Albacore tuna, also known as 'white' tuna, typically contains an average of three times more mercury than smaller, canned 'light' tuna varieties like skipjack. This significant difference in mercury levels is a primary reason health experts advise caution and moderation when consuming this popular fish.

According to data from the FDA, the average mercury levels for fresh/frozen yellowfin tuna are just slightly less than those for fresh/frozen albacore. Does yellowfin tuna have less mercury than albacore tuna? While the difference is often minimal for fresh varieties, it is more significant when comparing to canned light tuna.

According to a 2012 report, tuna is one of the most widely consumed fish species globally, yet excessive intake can lead to methylmercury poisoning. The question of whether two cans is a safe daily amount is a recurring debate on Reddit, where users share varied experiences and concerns.