Some chemicals are widespread in our environment and can build up in certain kinds of fish. Eating these fish may present a health risk, especially for children and people who rely on the fish as a main source of food. The “Stop, Check, Enjoy!” campaign aims to help people avoid these contaminants by choosing to eat safer types of fish.
The information here may be useful for local health departments, government agencies, and non-profit organizations (NGOs) who work with subsistence fish consumers—but anyone who catches and eats fish can use them!
Explore the following pages for general information about eating safer fish.
What are common contaminants, where do they come from, and what are their health impacts?
The health impacts of eating fish with harmful levels of contaminants depend on the type of contaminant in the fish, how much fish is consumed, and also the age of the person who is exposed to the contaminants. Children and babies are especially vulnerable because their bodies are still developing.
Local subsistence fishermen and their families who regularly eat fish also have a higher risk of health impacts from contaminants in fish because they may eat more of these contaminants than other people. This is also an environmental justice concern because people from lower income groups are more likely to rely on locally caught fish as a primary food source. Learn more
How can I reduce my exposure?
Fish provide many dietary benefits as a source of lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and other essential nutrients. However, some types of fish can also be sources of harmful contaminants. This page contains more info on safer alternatives when eating fish and ways to reduce exposure when preparing a meal. Learn more
What are fish consumption advisories?
State health departments use data on contaminants in fish tissue to set “fish consumption advisories” that tell you how much and what type of fish caught from a certain lake or river are safe to eat. These advisories can help people choose safer types of fish to eat. In North Carolina, there is a statewide advisory for mercury in all bodies of water. Women of childbearing age (age 15 to 44), pregnant women, nursing women, and children under 15 should not eat fish high in mercury. Learn more