Mercury Contamination in Tinned Tuna: A Growing Concern in European Supermarkets
Contaminated Tinned Tuna in European Supermarkets
A recent test of tinned tuna in European supermarkets has revealed widespread contamination with dangerous levels of mercury. The alarming findings have led two environmental pressure groups, Foodwatch and Bloom, to urge retail stores and governments to take "urgent" measures to address the issue.
Widespread Contamination
Bloom conducted a test on 148 tins of tuna randomly selected from British, French, Italian, German, and Spanish supermarkets. The results were shocking: all of the tins contained mercury, with over 50% exceeding the 0.3 milligrams per kilogramme maximum limit for mercury in other fish.
Current Regulations Insufficient
The current accepted level of mercury in tuna is one milligram per kilo, set to ensure that 95% of tuna caught is sold. Bloom argues that this is the reason why tuna, one of the most contaminated species, is given a maximum tolerance in mercury three times higher than less contaminated species. This discrepancy is unwarranted, as mercury is toxic regardless of its source or concentration.
The Dangers of Mercury
Mercury is a highly toxic substance that can cause serious health problems. It is often spread by atmospheric deposits from coal power stations and can mix with bacteria in the ocean to form methylmercury, a potent neurotoxin that can damage the nervous system and cause neurological troubles.
Call for Action
Foodwatch and Bloom are urging the European Commission to toughen permitted mercury levels in tuna to align with other fish at 0.3 milligrams per kilogramme. They also demand that public authorities strengthen regulation and distributors refrain from selling products with excessive mercury levels.
Conclusion
The findings of this study are a wake-up call for governments, retailers, and consumers alike. It is imperative that we take immediate action to address the widespread contamination of tinned tuna with mercury. The health and well-being of consumers should be the top priority, and it is the responsibility of authorities to ensure that our food is safe and healthy.
FAQs
- What are the health risks associated with mercury in tinned tuna?
Mercury is a toxic substance that can cause serious health problems, including damage to the nervous system and neurological troubles. - Why is mercury contamination a problem in tinned tuna?
Mercury is often spread by atmospheric deposits from coal power stations and can mix with bacteria in the ocean to form methylmercury, a potent neurotoxin. - What is the current accepted level of mercury in tuna?
The current accepted level is one milligram per kilogramme, set to ensure that 95% of tuna caught is sold. - What is the demanded level of mercury in tuna by Foodwatch and Bloom?
The groups demand that the European Commission set a level of 0.3 milligrams per kilogramme, in line with other fish.