Man on a boat holding a fish

Fish and shellfish are an important part of healthy meal planning. They are a lean, low-calorie, high quality source of protein. They contain essential nutrients, omega-3 fatty acids, and are low in saturated fat.

Well-balanced meals that include a variety of fish and shellfish can contribute to heart health and children's proper growth and development. Omega-3 fatty acids in fish benefit the hearts of healthy people and those at high risk of, or who have, cardiovascular (heart) disease.

However, some fish and shellfish (e.g., clams, oysters) may contain chemicals or illness-causing microorganisms like bacteria and viruses that could pose health risks to people. When contaminant levels are unsafe, fish and shellfish advisories help people make informed decisions about where to fish or harvest shellfish. Advisories recommend that people limit or avoid eating certain species of fish and shellfish caught in certain places.

All 50 states and some U.S. territories and tribes issue advisories to protect people from potential health risks of eating contaminated fish caught in local waters. EPA encourages states, territories and tribes to also issue safe eating guidelines. These guidelines tell people which fish they can eat safely and encourage eating fish and shellfish as part of a healthy diet.

Want to learn more?

EPA's ACT: Stay Healthy by Eating Wisely provides more information for those who want to safely include fish and shellfish in their diets.

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