How much fish can you eat per week?

Given the numerous types of fish, which are distinguished by the different composition of their meat, some leaner and more digestible than others, it is not exactly correct to speak of absolute quantities but rather average quantities.

A bit like it is done for meat, fish with white meat and small size is fine to consume up to 3-4 portions a week, while for large fish the precautionary principle imposes a consumption of no more than one or two portions a week.

In fact, if the saying that "big fish eats little fish" is true, large fish would tend to bioaccumulate dangerous toxins.

In detail, the European Commission, for greater protection of the population segments most sensitive to exposure to methylmercury, has issued a specific communication in which the consumption of a weekly portion not exceeding 100 g is recommended for large predatory fish (such as swordfish, pike, etc.) and no more than two weekly portions of tuna. In case you still want to consume it, it is better to avoid other species of fish in the weekly diet to avoid overexposure to possible contaminants.

Doctor Pietro Senette

Nutritionist and researcher