Swordfish
Swordfish is a high-mercury fish. The FDA/EPA 'Advice About Eating Fish' explicitly places swordfish in the 'Choices to Avoid' category for women who are or may become pregnant, breastfeeding, and children due to high methylmercury content.
What it is
Large predatory marine fish (Xiphias gladius) consumed as seafood.
Whole-food protein source in seafood dishes.
Why it's flagged
- High methylmercury content
- Avoid during pregnancy/breastfeeding and for young children
- Fish allergen
What regulators actually say
"Choices to Avoid – HIGHEST MERCURY LEVELS: King Mackerel, Marlin, Orange Roughy, Shark, Swordfish, Tilefish (Gulf of Mexico), Tuna, Bigeye."
"EFSA recommends that pregnant and breastfeeding women and young children should limit consumption of large predatory fish such as swordfish, marlin, pike and tuna."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted seafood; FDA action level for methylmercury 1 ppm; FDA/EPA advisory places swordfish in 'Choices to Avoid'.
European Union — EFSA
EFSA recommends limiting swordfish intake due to methylmercury, especially for pregnant women and children.
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