Pregnancy nutrition can sometimes be quite confusing, especially when it comes to seafood. So, if you are unsure about whether it is safe to consume seafood during your pregnancy, you are not alone. While many fish contains heart-healthy nutrients, some of them are also full of mercury.
So if you want to know what the real dish on fish is during pregnancy, then read on as we share what is safe and what is not when it comes to seafood in Singapore.
Both fish and shellfish are great sources of protein, iron, and zinc - all of which are important nutrients that contribute to your baby's growth and development. In addition, the omega-3 fatty acids and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) found in fish such as salmon fillets also help promote the brain development of your fetus. However, certain types of seafood, particularly large predatory fish like sharks, swordfish, and mackerel, have been found to contain high levels of mercury. While mercury in seafood is generally not a major concern for most adults, it is best to be more precautious if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. This is because research has shown that ingesting high levels of mercury can affect the development of the nervous system, especially in children, infants, and developing fetuses. With that being said, you should not avoid eating seafood completely. But instead, you should choose the right ones to eat. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), it is recommended that pregnant women eat at least eight to 12 ounces (340 grams) of a variety of low-mercury seafood in a week. In Singapore, there are limits set on seafood based on the internationally accepted principle of "As Low As Reasonably Achievable" to protect consumers without disrupting the food supply and trade industry. The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) also tests locally produced as well as imported seafood fo heavy metals to ensure that everything is safe for consumption. Many seafood wholesale suppliers in Singapore are also encouraged to source their seafood supply from waters that are regularly monitored by the authorities in the source countries. All Big Frozen Food takes pride in the sourcing of our frozen seafood, and we only deliver the freshest and safest seafood products to every one of our customers.