State officials have released new guidelines on how much fish is safe to eat. The limits are strictest for childbearing-aged women, and children. Mercury in fish can harm the nervous systems of fetuses and children. John Dreisig of the Department of Health and Human Services told NHPR�s Trish Anderton there are four kinds of saltwater fish people in the at-risk group should stop eating altogether: swordfish, king mackerel, shark and tilefish.
NEW STATE GUIDELINES
FRESHWATER FISH
Pregnant and nursing women, women who may get pregnant: one 8-ounce meal per month. Children under seven: one 3-ounce meal per month. All other adults and children: four 8-ounce meals per month.
SALTWATER FISH
Pregnant and nursing women, women who may get pregnant: Avoid swordfish, king mackerel, shark, and tilefish. Canned tuna: one can of "white" or two cans of "light" per week. All other ocean fish, no more than two meals per week.
Children under seven: Avoid swordfish, king mackerel, shark, and tilefish. Canned tuna: 1/2 can of "white" or one can of "light" per week. All other ocean fish, no more than two meals per week.
All other adults and children: no limits.
TIPS: Smaller fish have less mercury. For Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass and Chain Pickerel, choose fish 12 inches long or less. Do not eat bass or pickerel from May Pond or Ashuelot Pond in Washington, or from Crystal Lake in Gilmanton.
