Are You Worried About Mercury Levels In Tuna?

Are mercury levels in tuna safe?

We talk with Michael Morrissey Ph.D, formerly with the Oregon State University Seafood Lab in Astoria, Oregon, and the lead author of the 2005 study Mercury Content in Troll-Caught Albacore Tuna (pdf) that examined mercury levels in West Coast tuna.

As we learn in the interview, the study also examined the relative levels of a number of long chain Omega 3 fatty acids that are present in tuna, and considered particularly important to the healthy growth of developing fetuses, and young children. The very same human populations that are most susceptible to the deleterious effects from mercury poisoning.

So is tuna safe to eat? Is there a certain variety that is safer to consume than others? Who will potentially benefit the most from eating albacore tuna in moderation? Should pregnant women and young children avoid eating tuna altogether?

You may be pleasantly surprised by what you learn in this video.

Most of the videos featured on Cooking Up a Story were produced, filmed, and edited by Rebecca Gerendasy. Fred Gerendasy contributed as a writer to many of the posts and occasionally as the interviewer. Visit Rebecca Gerendasy Clay – Art and Fred Gerendasy Photography to see their current work.