When it comes to eating fish, you’ve probably read things that sound, well—fishy! And while The American Heart Association recommends including healthy fish (such as salmon) in your diet to support cardiovascular health, the safety of consuming farm-raised fish has been questioned in regards to toxic contamination. So what should you do? Is eating wild-caught fish the answer?
If you currently consume salmon or other healthy fish, don’t let these concerns overshadow the benefits. These fish are high in heart-healthy omega-3 essential fatty acids, protein, selenium and vitamin B12. Here are three ways to reduce the potential for contamination.
1. Consider the source of your fish
According to studies by the Environmental Working Group and Science Journal, farm-raised salmon may have a higher concentration of PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls), a probable carcinogen, than wild salmon, due to their food source.
2. Trim as much fat as possible
This is important if you’re consuming farm-raised fish, as common contaminants are typically stored in the fish’s fat. Grilling and broiling the fish can reduce the fat content even further.
3. Check the label
If you’re looking for wild-caught fish, there are plenty of fresh, frozen and canned varieties available. In fact, nearly all canned salmon is wild. Just check the packaging!
So, if you’re searching for something to put on the dinner table, don’t be afraid to go fish!