This information may shock many people. Valued for its taste and health-promoting properties, Atlantic salmon is one of the most frequently chosen fish in our country, but it turns out that it is worth taking a closer look at it and considering whether it is really a safe choice. The point is that the authorities of Australia and New Zealand have recognized that its cultivation and consumption may pose a threat to human health, but also to the environment.
The reason for this controversial decision are doubts about industrial fish farms. Fish live there in shocking numbers – hundreds of thousands or even millions of individuals live in huge sea cages. This situation favors the development of diseases – including sea lice. Breeders, wanting to reduce losses, use various types of antiparasitic agents and antibiotics.
Pollution is also a serious problem. Remains of feed and substances used in farming go directly into the water, polluting it.
Is Atlantic salmon really unhealthy? This question is certainly being asked by many fans of this fish. It should be noted that the matter is not clear-cut. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) still recommend eating fish 1-2 times a week as a source of protein, vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids.
However, there are doubts about farmed fish. In their case, the main reason is the lower omega-3 content compared to wild animals, but also the residues of chemicals. Here we can refer to farmed salmon, as its feed composition is also a concern. Preservatives, dyes, animal waste – all this can be found in food. That is why the levels of some harmful substances in farmed salmon are much higher than in wild fish.
Of course, this does not automatically mean that every piece of salmon is full of toxins and poses a threat to our health. The most important factors are its origin, breeding standards, and frequency of consumption – all of which should be given special attention.
The most common salmon we find in stores is Atlantic salmon, and most of it comes from farms. Due to the current controversy, it is worth paying attention to Pacific salmon – this fish usually comes from wild catches.
Typically, Pacific salmon has a more favorable fatty acid profile and fewer contaminants. The structure of the meat and its taste are also different, Pacific salmon is often less fatty and more expressive.
Source: Terazgotuje.pl
