Fish is often thought of as a healthy and safe option for those looking to improve their health through their diet. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids, there’s no need to wonder why! But did you know that not every type of fish is created equal? In fact, some types of fish could actually be harming your health more than it’s helping it. Check out this list of fish you should avoid before making your next trip to the grocery store!
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Tilapia
Tilapia is one of the most commonly consumed types of fish in this country, but it shouldn’t be anywhere near your dinner plate. Tilapia is typically found in fish farms due to the high demand for the fish. Tilapia contains a critically high number of omega-6 fatty acids paired with an extremely low number of omega-3 fatty acids. That makes this seemingly innocent fish worse for your health than bacon, donuts, and cheeseburgers.
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Caviar
Caviar is a delicacy in many parts of the world, including America. The price tag that comes with this fishy delight is high in more ways than one. Not only will it take a chunk out of your wallet, but it’s also taking a chunk out of the wildlife as well. In fact, the fish that caviar comes from is in danger of extinction. Try your best to make the right ethical choice and keep a distance from caviar, at least for now.
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Atlantic Salmon
Despite the oceanic name, Atlantic salmon is actually farmed salmon. Much like farmed tilapia, that means the health benefits of this popular fish are much lower than people think. The farming conditions these salmon are kept in expose them to bacteria, pesticides, feces, and many more things you’d probably like to keep away from your dinner plate.
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Atlantic Cod
The popularity of Atlantic cod has led to a great decline in the number of living cod in the sea. The fish isn’t technically at risk of extinction yet, but it’s well on its way. The majority of the eggs laid by a mother Atlantic cod fish are unable to survive in the sea. That means that we’re fishing faster than the cod can regenerate and it’s only a matter of time before extinction is within view.
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Eel
Most sushi fans have tried eel at least once or twice. While the fish has a unique texture and flavor that many people desire, you should avoid the fish for multiple reasons. First, the eel is another fish on our list that’s quickly being overfished quicker than the population can regenerate. With time this will lead to the extinction of the fish. In addition to extinction risk, eel could likely be harming your health. The fish absorbs many harmful chemicals it comes in contact with including pesticides, flame retardants, and more.
Mare Oyster Bar located in Boston’s North End only serves the freshest quality of seafood. We believe that seafood, when cooked and served right, can be a healthier alternative to meat. If you are ever in the North End and find yourself craving for some seafood, head on over to Mare!