Eating Fish Low in Mercury is a Healthy Choice

Fish Lowest in Mercury

1. Salmon – Both wild and farmed salmon tend to have low levels of mercury.
2. Anchovies – Small and have a very short lifespan, which contributes to their low mercury content.
3. Herring – Another small fish known for low mercury levels.
4. Sardines – Typically have low mercury levels due to their small size and short lifespan.
5. Trout – Freshwater trout, especially farmed varieties, often have low mercury levels.
6. Atlantic and Pacific Mackerel – Not to be confused with King Mackerel, these varieties are known for lower mercury levels.
7. Catfish – Generally has low levels of mercury, especially farm-raised varieties.
8. Tilapia – A popular farm-raised fish known for its low mercury content.
9. Shrimp – Generally low in mercury, widely consumed worldwide.
10. Oysters and Clams – These bivalves are typically low in mercury.

Fish Highest in Mercury

1. Swordfish – Known for having one of the highest mercury contents among fish.
2. Shark – As a top predator, sharks accumulate high levels of mercury.
3. King Mackerel – Especially larger ones, tend to have high mercury levels.
4. Tilefish (from the Gulf of Mexico) – Known for high mercury content.
5. Orange Roughy – This deep-sea fish accumulates significant amounts of mercury.
6. Marlin – Another large predator fish with high mercury levels.
7. Ahi Tuna – Large varieties like Bigeye and Yellowfin have higher mercury levels.
8. Bluefin Tuna – Known for high mercury content, often used in sushi.
9. Spanish Mackerel – Generally has higher mercury levels than Atlantic and Pacific Mackerel.
10. Chilean Sea Bass – Also known as Patagonian Toothfish, tends to have high mercury levels.

It’s important to balance the consumption of fish to enjoy their health benefits while minimizing mercury exposure. For specific dietary needs or concerns, consulting a healthcare provider is recommended.