Mercury is a naturally occurring element, common in the environment and may present in small concentration in plants, land and marine animals. The maximum limit of 0.5ppm is set for fish by Health Canada and enforced by CFIA.
Clover Leaf Seafoods regularly monitors mercury levels in canned seafood and it has never exceeded the limit set by Health Canada.
Health Canada has identified certain fish (fresh or frozen tuna, shark, swordfish, marlin, orange roughy and escolar) as being of more concern when it comes to mercury. Light tuna, such as skipjack and yellowfin, commonly used in Clover Leaf canned tuna are generally younger and smaller and are relatively low in mercury compared to fresh or frozen tuna.
Health Canada recommends that pregnant women and children under 12 years old choose the light tuna skipjack and yellowfin canned tuna to reduce any mercury risk.
Canned tuna is one of the most popular type of fish for Canadians. It is an excellent source of high-quality protein that is low in saturated fat, making it a healthy food choice. We hope we have answered your questions fully and that you will continue to enjoy our Clover Leaf products.