The KidSafe Program takes a precautionary approach where children’s health is concerned. Our recommendations are based on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) risk-assessment methodology for two major seafood contaminants—mercury and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)—and the most comprehensive scientific data currently available. For parents who want to feed their children fish while limiting their exposure to toxic contaminants, KidSafe Seafood highlights some of the best options available.

KidSafe Seafood also considers the levels of omega-3 fatty acids in fish (combined EPA and DHA). Omega-3 data is provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Nutrient Database. The recommended daily intake of 250 mg/day follows the adult dietary requirements*. Species considered “high” in omega-3 fatty acids meet the recommended intake if consumed three or fewer times per week.

The KidSafe Seafood list highlights fish that children can safely eat at least once a week (4.35 times per month). Following the EPA’s guidelines, our calculations are based on an average body weight of 14.5 kg (~32 lbs) and a portion size of 3 ounces** for young children ages 0-6 and an average body weight of 30.5 kg (~62 lbs) and a portion size of 4.5 ounces** for older children ages 6-12. The recommended limit for mercury content in seafood is 0.119 ppm (parts per million) and 0.167 ppm for younger and older children, respectively. For PCBs, the health limit is 0.006 ppm and 0.008 ppm for younger and older children, respectively.

Under the guidance of a panel of doctors and scientists, we collected and assessed published government and peer-reviewed scientific data from a wide variety of sources: the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the National Marine Fisheries Service, various state agencies, and academic studies.

Because most commercially-sold fish have not been adequately tested for contaminants***, we also evaluated each fish based on its life history characteristics such as what they eat, how long they live as well as body fat composition, as fish are more or less likely to be contaminated depending on a variety of factors. These include what they eat, how long they live, and how much body fat they have.

All the KidSafe Best Choices are sustainable, as determined by the leading environmental organizations monitoring the world’s fisheries. KidSafe Seafood is also committed to providing consumers with complete information about all their favorite fish—even if they are not sustainable—so that they can make informed decisions about what to feed their families. KidSafe recommends that when the Best Choices aren’t available, choose ocean-friendly seafood and follow the recommended maximum meals per month.

Several species that KidSafe Seafood reviews are considered data deficient for lack of either sustainability or contaminant information. KidSafe Seafood provides as much information as is available for each species. KidSafe Seafood recognizes that data deficient species may be low in contaminants and/or sustainable and does not intend to suggest otherwise. However, we cannot recommend any species without adequate scientific review to support the listing.

KidSafe Seafood also acknowledges the potential role of selenium in neutralizing mercury toxicity. While some research suggests selenium may help counterbalance the toxicity effects of mercury in animals, we believe additional research is needed to determine the full extent of mercury-selenium interactions before issuing any recommendations for children. KidSafe Seafood will continue to monitor the latest scientific research.

 

*The available information relating dietary EPA and DHA intakes in children aged 2-12 years to growth, development and health is insufficient to derive dietary intake recommendations for EPA and DHA.

** A standard deck of cards is roughly equivalent to a 3 oz serving size.

***Species not on the KidSafe list may also be healthy choices for young children, but sufficient research has not yet been conducted. As more PCB and mercury data become available, the KidSafe Seafood Program will continually reassess and update the list.