The U.S. Tuna Foundation said it is pleased with today’s Food and Drug Administration’s announcement reaffirming that canned fish is a safe and nutritious food product with many health benefits.
An advisory issued today by the FDA — the government agency responsible for regulating the canned tuna industry — underscored the safe and many beneficial aspects of canned fish. After a thorough scientific review, the FDA reiterated its long-standing advisory that canned fish, including canned tuna, can be safely consumed by pregnant women and women of childbearing age, according to the U.S. Tuna Foundation (USTF).
In issuing the advisory for pregnant women to avoid swordfish, shark, king mackerel and tilefish, the FDA encouraged pregnant women “to select a variety of other kinds of fish — including shellfish, canned fish, smaller ocean fish or farm-raised fish.”
“As an industry that is committed at all times to producing safe and nutritious food products, we agree with the FDA, particularly its advice that canned fish, including canned tuna, is a safe and essential part of the American diet,” said David Burney, executive director of the USTF.
Many scientific and medical studies have documented the health benefits of canned tuna — an excellent low-fat source of proteins, vitamins, minerals and heart-healthy fatty acids and fish oil. In addition, many scientists, physicians and health and dietary organizations, such as the American Heart Association, advocate fish consumption as part of a healthy and balanced diet.
The U.S. Tuna Foundation is a trade association representing U.S. tuna processors and U.S. tuna boat owners.
