Contaminants: Mercury
Why it’s risky: Tilefish are slow-growing and high on the food chain, increasing mercury accumulation.
Better alternative: Pollock or cod
5. Orange Roughy
Contaminants: Mercury and other toxins
Why it’s risky: These deep-sea fish live decades, giving toxins time to build up.
Better alternative: Wild-caught Pacific salmon
6. Bigeye Tuna
Contaminants: Mercury
Why it’s risky: Bigeye tuna is popular in sushi, but frequent consumption can pose mercury risks.
Better alternative: Light canned tuna (lower mercury)
7. Marlin
Contaminants: Mercury
Why it’s risky: Another large predatory fish with high mercury levels.
Better alternative: Small pelagic fish like sardines or anchovies
8. Ahi Tuna
Contaminants: Mercury
Why it’s risky: Commonly served raw in sushi, ahi tuna can have elevated mercury levels.
Better alternative: Skip for raw sushi; try salmon or shrimp instead
9. Chilean Sea Bass
Contaminants: Mercury and overfishing concerns
Why it’s risky: Both health and environmental issues make this fish less ideal.
Better alternative: Farmed rainbow trout or Atlantic mackerel
10. Bluefin Tuna
