Does True World Foods sell fish containing mercury? How much mercury is safe?
Mercury is a naturally occurring element in the environment and is also released into the environment from industrial pollution. Mercury that is caused by industrial pollution most commonly accumulates in local streams, rivers and lakes. Mercury can also enter the ocean by way of underwater volcanic activity or steam vents. Nearly all fish and shellfish contain traces of mercury. Mercury builds up more in some fish than others, depending on where they live, what they eat, how long they live, and the overall fat content of the fish. This explains why mercury levels can be highest in larger, older fish such as swordfish and shark. A recent joint study and consumer advisory prepared by FDA and EPA offers the following information and recommendations: • Certain persons may wish to limit their consumption of certain fish known to contain higher levels of mercury, such as shark, swordfish, king mackerel, or tilefish. (Other varieties of mackerel such as Atlantic, chub, and Spanish mackerel c