When it comes to fish not fit for human consumption, there are several species that should be avoided due to high mercury levels, unsustainable fishing practices, or other health concerns. Some of the fish to avoid eating include King Mackerel, Shark, Sword fish, Tilefish, and Orange Roughy.

Fish to Avoid Eating

• Imported Farmed Shrimp: Avoid imported farmed shrimp due to the use of banned antibiotics in their production.
• Orange Roughy: Orange Roughy has been overfished and is high in mercury levels, making it a fish to avoid.
• Chilean Sea Bass: Chilean Sea Bass, also known as Patagonian Toothfish, is a fish to avoid due to its high mercury levels and unsustainable fishing practices.
• American Eel: American Eel is high in PCBs and mercury, making it a fish to avoid eating.
• Sharkes, Skate, and Rays: Sharkes, Skate, and Rays are high in mercury and have unsustainable fishing practices, making them a fish to avoid.
• Atlantic Cod: Atlantic Cod is a fish to avoid due to its slow rebuilding of stocks and high mercury levels.
• Tuna: Tuna is a fish to avoid due to its high mercury levels and unsustainable fishing practices.
• Wild Caviar: Wild Caviar is a fish to avoid due to its high mercury levels and unsustainable fishing practices.

Why These Fish Should be Avoided

• High mercury levels: Mercury is a toxic substance that can cause brain and nerve damage in adults and affect the development of babies and young children.
• Unsustainable fishing practices: Overfishing and destructive fishing practices can harm the environment and deplete fish populations.
• Health concerns: Some fish may contain high levels of PCBs, antibiotics, or other harmful substances that can affect human health.

Alternatives to These Fish

• For shrimp, opt for domestic, farm-raised shrimp or Asian carp.
• For Orange Roughy, try Pacific halibut or Atlantic mackerel.
• For Chilean Sea Bass, opt for U.S. hook-and-line-caught haddock.
• For American Eel, try domestic, farm-raised catfish or Asian carp.
• For Sharkes, Skate, and Rays, opt for Pacific halibut or Atlantic mackerel.
• For Atlantic Cod, try Pacific cod or Atlantic mackerel.
• For Tuna, opt for Skipjack or tinned sardines.
• For Wild Caviar, try fish eggs from American Lake Sturgeon or American Hackleback/Shovelnose Sturgeon caviar from the Mississippi River system.