Top 8 types of fish to avoid on your plate

Spadon: a contaminated predator

As a major predator, swordfish accumulates high levels of mercury, a heavy metal that is toxic to humans. Excessive consumption can lead to risks to the nervous system, especially in pregnant women and young children.

Shadows: populations in decline

Several species of rays are in decline due to overfishing. Their low reproductive rate makes them particularly vulnerable. It is preferable to turn to other fish whose stocks are in better condition.


Fortunately, there are highly recommended fish that can be eaten without fear:

  • Sardines: rich in omega-3, economics, and very low in mercury. This is a must.

  • Atlantic Mackerel: rich in omega-3 with good health security

  • Wild salmon: to be preferred over farmed salmon, which is often more polluted

  • HarengHardness: good nutrient balance and risks


Wild or farmed fish: an important nuance

A salmon is not just a salmon. The one bred in the pool can contain up to 16 times more pollutants than wild salmon. The fault lies with an industrial diet rich in maize and soybeans, which also unbalances the omega-3 content.

It’s kind of like comparing a supermarket tomato to that of your grandmother’s garden: they look the same, but the quality isn’t the same.


How do you make an informed choice?

Faced with sometimes incomplete or unupdated data on marine pollution, caution and common sense remain your best allies. Give preference to fish:

  • Rich in omega-3 (see nutritional values)

  • Small and wild

  • Fished in poorly polluted areas (avoid industrial areas)


In the ocean, not all fish are equal.
To benefit fully from the benefits of seafood without suffering the drawbacks, it is sufficient to make the right choices. Integrate omega-3, low-mercury-rich species into your meals, and avoid overly contaminated predatory fish.


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