Canned Tuna
Canned tuna provides high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids but contains methylmercury. FDA/EPA recommend pregnant women and young children limit white (albacore) tuna to 1 serving per week and choose 'best choices' such as light tuna more often.
What it is
Cooked tuna fish (typically Thunnus or Katsuwonus species) packed in a sealed metal can with water, brine, or oil.
Shelf-stable protein source; sandwich filling; salad and casserole protein.
Why it's flagged
- methylmercury exposure
- sodium content
- fish allergen
- histamine (scombroid) risk if mishandled
What regulators actually say
"White (albacore) tuna has more mercury than canned light tuna. Eat only 1 serving a week of white tuna and don't eat any other fish that week from the 'good choices' list."
"Canned tuna is the food prepared from one of the species of fish enumerated... and is packed with one of the optional packing media."
"Fishery products: Tuna (Thunnus species)... maximum mercury level 1.0 mg/kg wet weight."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Canned tuna standardized under 21 CFR 161.190; FDA/EPA mercury advisory for pregnant women and children.
European Union — EFSA
Mercury maximum level 1.0 mg/kg for tuna under Commission Regulation 1881/2006.
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