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Division of Environmental Health > Environmental & Occupational Health Program > Fish and Game Guidelines > WARNING About Eating Saltwater Fish and Lobster Tomalley

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WARNING About Eating Saltwater Fish and Lobster Tomalley

Warning: Chemicals in some Maine saltwater fish and lobster tomalley may harm people who eat them. Women who are or may become pregnant and children should carefully follow the Safe Eating Guidelines.


It's hard to believe that fish that looks, smells, and tastes fine may not be safe to eat. But the truth is that some saltwater fish have mercury, PCBs and Dioxins in them.

All these chemicals settle into the ocean from the air. PCBs and Dioxins also flow into the ocean through our rivers. These chemicals then build up in fish.

Small amounts of mercury can damage a brain starting to form or grow. That's why babies in the womb, nursing babies, and young children are at most risk. Mercury can also harm older children and adults, but it takes larger amounts.

PCBs and Dioxins can cause cancer and other health problems if too much builds up in your body. Since some saltwater fish contain several chemicals, we ask that all consumers of the following saltwater species follow the safe eating guidelines.

Revised February 20, 2001

 

SAFE EATING GUIDELINES


Striped Bass and Bluefish: Eat no more than 2 meals per month.

Shark, Swordfish, King Mackerel, and Tilefish: Pregnant and nursing women, women who may get pregnant and children under 8 years of age are advised to not eat any swordfish or shark. All other individuals should eat no more than 2 meals per month.

Canned Tuna: Pregnant and nursing women, women who may get pregnant and children under 8 years of age can eat no more than 1 can of "white" tuna or 2 cans of "light" tuna per week.

All other ocean fish and shellfish, including canned fish and shellfish: Pregnant and nursing women, women who may get pregnant and children under 8 years of age can eat no more than 2 meals per week.

Lobster Tomalley: No Consumption. While there is no known safety considerations when it comes to eating lobster meat, consumers are advised to refrain from eating the tomalley. The tomalley is the soft, green substance found in the body cavity of the lobster. It functions as the liver and pancreas, and test results have shown the tomalley can accumulate contaminants found in the environment.


For more information, including warnings on  freshwater fish call (866)-292-3474 or visit  our web site http://www.maine.gov/dhs/ehu