Tilapia fish is a cost-effective source of protein with a mild flavor that can be used in a variety of recipes. It is the fourth most consumed seafood in the U.S. (1)
Originating in Africa and the Middle East, Tilapia is farmed in 135 countries worldwide, with China being the largest producer. Various hybrids have been developed for market efficiency. (2, 3, 4)
While Tilapia offers nutritional benefits, such as B vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein, there are concerns about its farmed nature. (5)
Reasons to Avoid Tilapia Fish
- Unnatural Diet- Tilapia are fed an unnatural diet that may include genetically modified ingredients. This poses health risks for consumers. (5)
- Animal Feces in Feeding- Some reports suggest that farmed Tilapia in China may be fed animal feces as part of their diet, raising concerns about contamination. (6)
- Chemical Contamination- Tilapia from certain countries have been found to contain harmful chemicals due to poor farming practices, posing risks to human health. (6)
- Imbalanced Omega 3:6 Ratio- Tilapia has a higher omega-6 content compared to omega-3, leading to potential inflammation-related health issues. (7, 8)
Conclusion
While Tilapia is a common and affordable choice, concerns about its farming practices and nutritional content suggest opting for healthier alternatives like wild-caught fish with better omega-3 profiles. Avoid Tilapia from questionable sources and consider seafood consumption guidance for a safer choice. (5)
Related post: Salmon Caught In Seattle Are Full Of Cocaine
Sources
- Americans eating a lot more seafood, according to NFI’s new Top 10 list. (2018, December 13). Retrieved March 1, 2019, from https://www.seafoodsource.com/news/supply-trade/americans-eating-a-lot-more-seafood-according-to-nfi-s-new-top-10-list
- Britannica, T. E. (2017, September 06). Cichlid. Retrieved March 1, 2019, from https://www.britannica.com/animal/cichlid
- The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture. (n.d.). Retrieved March 1, 2019, from https://www.fao.org/3/a-i3720e.pdf
- Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch-Tilapia. (2018, November 14). Retrieved March 1, 2019, from https://www.seafoodwatch.org/-/m/sfw/pdf/reports/t/mba_seafoodwatch_tilapiachinareport.pdf
- Nfi, & NFI Nutrition. (2018, May 08). Tilapia Nutrition: Is Tilapia Healthy For You? Get Tilapia Nutrition Facts. Retrieved March 1, 2019, from https://www.aboutseafood.com/tilapia-nutrition/
- Gale, F., & Buzby, J. C. (2009, July). Imports From China and Food Safety Issues. Retrieved March 1, 2019, from https://www.ers.usda.gov/webdocs/publications/44390/9411_eib52_1_.pdf?v=41055
- Simopoulos, A. P. (2002, October). The importance of the ratio of omega-6/omega-3 essential fatty acids. Retrieved March 1, 2019, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12442909
- Weaver, K. L., Ivester, P., Chilton, J. A., Wilson, M. D., Pandey, P., & Chilton, F. H. (2008, July). The content of favorable and unfavorable polyunsaturated fatty acids found in commonly eaten fish. Retrieved March 1, 2019, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18589026
