Washington, DC - Recent fresh fish health advisories do not pertain or apply to canned tuna. Canned tuna is one of the safest protein on the market today. Even though the primary focus of the most recent consumption advisories has been on certain species of fresh fish, canned tuna has often been improperly implicated. This has some consumers confused and others alarmed. The public needs to know that canned tuna poses no health risks associated with mercury content.

REALITY: Recent advisories cautioning against consuming large fish such as shark, swordfish, king mackerel, tilefish simply do not apply to canned tuna. For example, fresh swordfish has a methylmercury concentration of 1.0 parts per million ("ppm") and fresh shark has a concentration of 0.96ppm, whereas canned tuna has a concentration of only 0.14ppm. For reference purposes, the FDA Action Level is 1.0ppm.

REALITY: Recent seafood use restrictions on certain fresh fish species simply do not pertain to canned tuna. Failing to explain these differences to consumers is denying them valuable and beneficial dietary information. Canned tuna continues to be a safe and wholesome source of protein, vitamins, and other beneficial nutrients.

REALITY: Canned tuna is an important part of a balanced diet. As part of a balanced diet recommended by experts, canned tuna can lower the risk of heart disease, ease the pain of arthritis, provide a low-fat source of protein for those watching their cholesterol, and add vitamins and minerals.

REALITY: Normal consumption levels of canned tuna pose no health risks. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration, American Heart Association, and other health organizations have noted canned tuna as a healthy food choice and an important part of a balanced diet.

The U.S. Tuna Foundation is the national organization representing the processors and fishermen of canned tuna.

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