Yes, you can eat canned tuna when pregnant, but you should limit how much you consume due to mercury content[1][5]. Most guidelines, including those from the FDA and NHS, advise that pregnant women can safely eat up to 12 ounces (340 grams) of canned light tuna per week, or up to 4 medium tins of canned tuna[1][5]. Albacore (white) and yellowfin tuna contain more mercury, and their intake should be limited to no more than 4 to 6 ounces (112 to 170 grams) per week[1][3][6][7].
Canned light tuna, which is generally skipjack, has significantly less mercury than albacore or yellowfin tuna and is preferred for pregnant women[3]. Completely avoid bigeye tuna and other high-mercury fish such as swordfish, shark, marlin, and king mackerel[1][5].
Some experts and organizations (such as Consumer Reports) recommend avoiding canned tuna entirely during pregnancy due to occasional spikes in mercury found even in otherwise lower-mercury products. They point to the variability in mercury content from can to can as presenting a possible risk to the developing fetus[2]. However, U.S. federal guidelines and most international health agencies still consider limited consumption of canned light tuna as safe if weekly amounts are followed[1][5].
To maximize benefits and reduce risk:
- Choose canned light tuna (skipjack) over albacore or yellowfin[3].
- Limit intake to up to 12 ounces (around 340 grams) per week or 4 medium cans[1][5].
- For albacore/white tuna, limit to up to 4–6 ounces (112–170 grams) per week[1][3][6][7].
- Completely avoid bigeye tuna and all very high-mercury fish[1][5].
- Always ensure canned tuna is thoroughly cooked and practice good food hygiene when preparing meals[5].
If you are concerned about mercury or unsure about the types or amounts of fish to eat, consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your pregnancy.
References
- [1] Can You Eat Tuna While Pregnant? – Healthline
- [2] How Worried Should You Be About Mercury in Your Tuna? – Consumer Reports
- [3] 5 Things to Know About Eating Seafood During Pregnancy
- [5] Foods to avoid in pregnancy – NHS
- [6] Mercury Levels in Fish – Safe Fish for Pregnancy
- [7] Pregnancy and fish: What’s safe to eat? – Mayo Clinic
Leave a Reply