Canned tuna is a versatile pantry staple that is unfortunately riddled with misinformation. If you’re worried about anything related to tuna, from quality and safety to nutrition and the environment, you’ve probably heard at least one of these stories before.
It seems like there are always rumors about tuna, even if you don’t have a problem with canned goods. Fears of mercury poisoning, food-borne illnesses, and added toxins and chemicals can make even the bravest chef nervous.
Don’t worry—we can bust these myths! Canned tuna has come a long way since the 1930s, when it came in key-locked rectangle cans and sandwiches were made in brown paper bags. Learning the truth behind these food myths can help you break out of a food rut and try something you would have normally avoided. From the silly to the serious, these myths about canned tuna are ready to be. tackled.
Tuna is one of the most popular fish worldwide, prized for its delicious taste, versatility, and nutrition profile. However, concerns over sustainability, mercury content, and food safety can make choosing the right tuna challenging. With tuna being imported globally, many wonder – is wild caught tuna from Thailand safe to eat?
As a seafood lover and health-conscious consumer, I decided to investigate this issue. Here’s a breakdown of the factors to consider regarding tuna from Thailand.
Overview of the Thai Tuna Industry
Thailand is one of the world’s leading producers of canned and fresh/frozen tuna. The country has a well-developed tuna fishery and processing industry, exporting tuna products to major markets like the United States Europe and Japan.
Much of the tuna comes from Thai fishing vessels operating in the waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. The main tuna species caught are skipjack, yellowfin, bigeye, and albacore. Purse seining and longline fishing are common methods used.
While some concerns have been raised about overfishing and bycatch, Thailand has made improvements in recent years for more responsible practices. They are working with organizations like the International Seafood Sustainability Foundation (ISSF) to monitor tuna stocks and reduce illegal fishing.
Food Safety Factors
When it comes to food safety, Thailand has strict regulations for seafood processing and exporting. All exported tuna must comply with the food safety laws of the destination country.
For tuna coming to the US, Thailand’s processing plants must meet FDA requirements. On-site audits and sampling help ensure proper handling, cold storage, packaging, and labeling.
Thailand also has competent national agencies that regulate and inspect seafood safety. The Thai FDA and Department of Fisheries conduct risk-based monitoring programs at all stages from catch to finished products.
As long as you are buying tuna from a reputable brand, you can feel confident about the safety inspections and controls in place. Look for recognizable company names on the label.
Mercury Level Concerns
Mercury accumulation varies by tuna species, size, and region fished. Of the tuna caught in Thailand, mercury levels are generally lowest in skipjack and safest for frequent consumption. Yellowfin, bigeye, and albacore have more mercury and should be eaten in moderation.
For canned tuna, almost all use smaller, younger fish that are naturally lower in mercury. Brands selling light tuna use skipjack species with very low mercury levels. Even for albacore “white” tuna, the FDA confirms mercury is not a health concern for adults eating one can (3-6 oz) per week.
Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and young children do need to limit albacore tuna to around 3-4 ounces per week. But they can enjoy light canned tuna more freely, as it has barely detectable mercury levels.
looking for Sustainability Signs
It’s important for consumers to support responsible tuna fishing practices. We can use our purchasing power to help protect tuna populations and other marine life.
For tuna from Thailand, here are some good signs:
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MSC certified: Look for the blue MSC label to signify certification by the Marine Stewardship Council for sustainable and traceable wild-caught seafood.
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Pole and line or troll caught: These selective fishing methods avoid bycatch of other species.
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FAD-free: Fishing without fish aggregating devices (FADs) reduces bycatch and juvenile catch.
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Chunk light tuna: Typically skipjack species with less mercury and sustainability concerns.
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Brands engaged in Fishery Improvement Projects (FIPs) to enhance sustainability.
My Verdict on Thai Tuna
Based on my research, tuna from Thailand can be a healthy and safe choice with some caveats. Stick to trusted brands and chunk light options to minimize risks. Look for sustainability certification and marks of responsible fishing.
While no seafood is perfect today, Thai tuna companies are making strides to improve. We can vote with our wallets to encourage further progress. With informed choices, wild caught tuna from Thailand can be part of a healthy, sustainable seafood diet.
Myth: Canned tuna has added preservatives and chemicals
In a similar vein, a common myth that plagues any prepackaged food claims that theyre all filled with chemicals and preservatives that keep canned foods shelf-stable and processed foods fresh. The issue here lies in a misunderstanding of the actual process of food packaging and the additives that are used — especially around how canned tuna is made. When anglers catch tuna for canning, regardless of its species, it is first stored cold until its time for cooking. The fish is pre-cooked to remove unwanted oils, then the skin and bones are removed from the flesh before canning. Processors pack the tuna into cans or jars with the canning liquid, usually broth, water, or oil, and any seasonings like salt.
The cans lids are vacuum sealed to prevent leakage and then get heated to at least 240 F. This eliminates any disease-causing bacteria, according to Food Source Information. The canning process has been around for centuries, with many home chefs still using a similar method today. If youre still worried about any hidden preservatives in your canned tuna, the Food Packaging Forum has you covered. A 2016 article published by the Danish Consumer Council THINK Chemicals tested 13 cans of tuna and the metal lid of a glass jar of tuna. They found that none of the 13 tested cans or lids contained dangerous quantities of BPA, BFA, or BPS.
Myth: Canned tuna can give you food poisoning
If youve ever eaten a meal and felt unbearably sick afterward, you can empathize with the fear behind this myth. Food poisoning impacts approximately 48 million people annually, according to the CDC, making it one of the most common illnesses in the United States. With canned fish, the two biggest food-borne illnesses are botulism and scombroid. Canned foods that are severely dented, have bulging lids and/or sides, or show signs of rust can show potential spoilage. Thankfully, botulism is rare in commercially canned goods unless the can is damaged. However, the USDA reinforces that keeping oxygen out of sealed cans is the most important thing to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, which causes poisons and neurotoxins like botulinum to develop.
For scombroid fish poisoning or histamine fish poisoning, even canned or preserved fish can be susceptible (via the National Library of Medicine). When transporters dont properly chill the fish throughout the entire transportation process, bacteria can break down the meat of the fish and cause high levels of histamines.
Luckily, doctors can treat scombroid poisoning with over-the-counter antihistamines, according to the Minnesota Dept. of Health, and purchasing from a reputable supplier or brand inspected by the FDA can nearly eliminate this issue.
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FAQ
Does tuna from Thailand have mercury?
Is it safe to eat fish from Thailand?
Is tuna from Thailand sustainable?
How is tuna caught in Thailand?
Is wild-caught tuna safe in Thailand?
In particular, Thailand has been in the spotlight for its tuna industry, which is one of the largest in the world. While canned tuna from Thailand is popular and affordable, questions remain about the safety of wild-caught tuna from this country.
Is Thai tuna safe?
One of the main safety concerns surrounding Thai tuna is the potential for contamination due to illegal fishing practices. Tuna caught illegally may be contaminated with harmful substances that can pose health risks to consumers. Another concern is the issue of human trafficking and labor abuses in the Thai fishing industry.
Is tuna safe to eat?
Tuna is a beloved seafood that has become a staple in many households around the world. However, with the increasing demand for this fish, concerns have been raised about the safety and sustainability of its production. In particular, Thailand has been in the spotlight for its tuna industry, which is one of the largest in the world.
Why is tuna a problem in Thailand?
Tuna caught illegally may be contaminated with harmful substances that can pose health risks to consumers. Another concern is the issue of human trafficking and labor abuses in the Thai fishing industry. Migrant workers are often hired as cheap labor and may be subjected to poor working conditions, low wages, and even forced labor.