Can I eat shark while pregnant?
US pregnancy food safety guidance. Educational only.
What Guidelines Say
FDA and ACOG guidelines advise avoiding shark due to high methylmercury levels that can harm fetal brain development.
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According to the FDA and EPA, shark is classified as a "Choice to Avoid" for pregnant women, those who might become pregnant, and breastfeeding mothers. This classification is based on the high concentration of methylmercury found in shark tissue. As long-lived apex predators, sharks accumulate mercury from the smaller fish they consume through a process known as biomagnification. Methylmercury is a potent neurotoxin that can cross the placenta and interfere with the developing brain and nervous system of a fetus. Exposure to high levels of mercury during pregnancy is linked to developmental delays, cognitive impairments, and issues with motor skills. While seafood provides beneficial omega-3 fatty acids, the risks associated with the mercury levels in shark outweigh these benefits according to current clinical guidelines. Consequently, medical authorities recommend excluding shark entirely from the diet during pregnancy.
Shark
Consume 8-12 ounces (224-336 grams) of low-mercury fish per week.
Salmon
Shrimp
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Safer Choices
Salmon
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids
- Low in mercury
- Beneficial for fetal development
Shrimp
- Low in mercury
- Good source of protein
Tilapia
- Mild-flavored
- Low-mercury fish
- Suitable for regular consumption
Catfish
- Provides essential nutrients
- Minimal mercury exposure
Canned Light Tuna
- Contains lower mercury levels compared to albacore tuna
- Limit to 2-3 servings per week
Best Choices Category
- Salmon, anchovies, and sardines are low in mercury and high in DHA, which supports fetal eye and brain development.
- Freshwater trout and herring provide similar nutritional benefits to high-mercury fish without the associated risks.
Low-Mercury White Fish
- Cod, tilapia, and haddock are considered safe when cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F to eliminate pathogens.
- Flounder and sole are additional lean protein sources that fall under the FDA's safest category for frequent consumption.
Shellfish Options
- Shrimp, scallops, and clams are low-mercury choices that provide essential minerals like iron and zinc.
- Crab and lobster are safe alternatives when fully cooked, though intake should be monitored for variety.
Risks & Limits
Shark
- High in mercury
- Avoid during pregnancy
Swordfish
- Contains elevated mercury levels
- Not recommended for pregnant women
King Mackerel
- Another high-mercury fish to avoid
Tilefish (from the Gulf of Mexico)
- Known for high mercury content
- Should be avoided
High-Mercury Species
- Shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish from the Gulf of Mexico are restricted due to extreme mercury accumulation.
- Bigeye tuna is also listed as a choice to avoid because of its high position in the food chain.
Raw or Undercooked Seafood
- Raw shark steaks or sushi-grade raw fish carry risks of Listeria monocytogenes and other foodborne pathogens.
- Refrigerated smoked seafood is often restricted unless it is part of a cooked dish reaching 165°F.
Key Points from Health Guidelines
Based on Mayo Clinic, FDA, NIH published guidance
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1Consume 8-12 ounces (224-336 grams) of low-mercury fish per week.
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2Avoid high-mercury fish: shark, swordfish, king mackerel, tilefish.
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3Choose a variety of seafood to ensure balanced nutrient intake.
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4Ensure all seafood is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
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5Limit albacore (white) tuna to 6 ounces (170 grams) per week.
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6Check local advisories when consuming locally caught fish.
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7Avoid raw or undercooked seafood to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Common Questions About shark in Pregnant
Can I eat shark while pregnant?
Is it safe to eat shark during the first trimester of pregnancy?
How much low-mercury fish is safe to eat during pregnancy?
What are the risks of consuming high-mercury fish like shark during pregnancy?
What are some safer alternatives to shark during pregnancy?
How should seafood be prepared to ensure safety during pregnancy?
Keep Reading Pregnancy Food Guides
Raw seafood and fish
Deli meats and cured meat
Soft cheese and dairy
Top Guides
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4.Technical Information on Development of FDA/EPA Advice about Eating Fish for Those Who Might Become or Are Pregnant or Breastfeeding and Children Ages 1-11 Years | FDA https://www.fda.gov/food/environmental-contaminants-food/technical-information-development-fdaepa-advice-about-eating-fish-those-who-might-become-or-are
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for advice specific to your pregnancy. Doola AI aggregates data from public health guidelines to provide these summaries.