Despite significant reductions in mercury pollution, tuna contamination with the toxic heavy metal has remained largely unchanged since the early 1970s. This always finds its way into the food chain of marine animals.
A research group in the journal Environmental Science & Technology Letters has pointed out that significant amounts of mercury are still being deposited at depths of more than 50 meters below the ocean’s surface.
Mercury enters the food chain
The ocean has absorbed large amounts of mercury over several centuries, which continues to accumulate in marine life through the food chain. This always ends up in the food chain.
One microgram of mercury per gram of fish
A research group analyzed mercury measurements in three species of tuna between 1971 and 2022 and found that despite large fluctuations, mercury concentrations averaged around one microgram per gram of fish.
Tuna is one of the most consumed seafood worldwide. Although mercury emissions in Europe, North America and the states of the former Soviet Union have declined significantly since 1970, mercury continues to accumulate in the muscles of predatory fish such as tuna.
Mercury compound can damage the nervous system
Methylmercury, a highly toxic mercury compound, mainly accumulates in sustainable predatory fish such as halibut, swordfish and tuna. This can damage the central nervous system, especially in unborn children and infants. Therefore, pregnant women and young children are not recommended to eat tuna.
EU agreement on a comprehensive ban on mercury dental fillings
In addition to eating marine fish, amalgam fillings are a major source of mercury in the human body. Despite alternatives, around 40 tonnes of mercury is still used in dental amalgams in the EU every year, according to Parliament. These will be largely banned from 2025.
Source: Krone
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