The consumption of one of the most popular fish in the world is being the subject of serious reserves by experts. According to the Greek newspaper News Bomb, this fish may contain more than 70 different parasites, which raises questions about its food security.
Proximity to marine mammals favors contamination
The reason for this high parasitic load is related to the early stages of fish life. “When they are young, these fish tend to stay close to the coastal areas, where they come into contact with marine mammals that perpetuate the parasites’ life cycle,” the publication says.
Artificial environment can aggravate the problem
In addition to natural threats, there are also concerns about how these fish are created. The same source stresses that “Aquaculture salmon feeds on a fish flour-based diet and various chemical additives.”
Chemicals under investigation
In aquaculture explorations, the use of substances for disease prevention is a frequent practice. “Caregivers often resort to pesticides and antibiotics that eventually accumulate on the surface of fish and, consequently, in the human organism,” warns the Greek medium.
Interestingly, the use of these products requires the use of protective equipment by workers. “IRONICAL IS THAT THESE SUBSTANCES ARE APPLIED TO PROTECT FISH, they can pose risks to the health of those who consume them,” the article reinforces.
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Differences marked between wild salmon and aquaculture
The distinction between nursery and wild salmon is therefore essential. According to HuffPost, the fish captured in a wild “feeds on naturally and has a more balanced nutritional profile.”
By contrast, captivity salmon “often contains a higher fat content and may have toxic impurities”, which feeds the debate about its quality.
Different calories for the same fish
The difference between the two variants goes beyond chemical composition. “Aquaculture salmon, which is the most consumed, has about 212 calories for every 100 grams, while the same amount of wild salmon contains only 115 calories,” reveals the study quoted by the Spanish portal.
Benefits remain present despite risks
Despite all reserves, salmon remains an important source of omega-3 fatty acids, known for its positive effects on heart and brain health.
To avoid surprises, experts, cited by the same source, recommend consumers to be aware of the origin of the fish they acquire. Choosing certified products can help reduce exposure to harmful substances.
Increasing looking for safer alternatives
In the face of concerns about aquaculture, there are a growing number of consumers to look for more friendly solutions. According to, some companies are already testing creation methods without resorting to aggressive chemicals.
Production must become more transparent
Although fish is a fundamental food in a balanced diet, production methods should be clearer and more controlled. Tight rules can help ensure safer products for the end consumer.
Quality and security have to walk hand in hand
The choice between wild and nursery fish is not just about tastes of taste. The impact these choices can have on health deserves increasing attention from those who consume.
In view of the information available, it is up to each consumer to decide with more criterion. Salmon will continue to be a sought after fish, but it should be known what we are really putting on the plate.
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