Is Shark, swordfish, king mackerel, Gulf of Mexico tilefish, bigeye tuna, marlin, orange roughy safe during pregnancy?
In short, according to public-health guidance, shark, swordfish, king mackerel, gulf of mexico tilefish, bigeye tuna, marlin, orange roughy is best avoided during pregnancy.
Why
Highest methylmercury levels — FDA/EPA 'Choices to Avoid'; methylmercury can harm a developing brain and nervous system
What to do
avoid entirely; Atlantic tilefish is a separate fish and is a Good Choice
The rest of the guidance
Most people checking one food have two or three more in mind. Here is the whole list, strictest first — each verdict is the same one published on that food's own page.
| All alcohol | best avoided |
| Rare/raw beef, poultry, pork; undercooked eggs | best avoided |
| Raw alfalfa, clover, radish, mung-bean sprouts | best avoided |
| Sushi, sashimi, raw shellfish, oysters, ceviche | best avoided |
| Unpasteurized (raw) milk; soft cheeses: brie, camembert, feta, blue, queso fresco | best avoided |
| Unpasteurized/fresh-pressed juices, cider | best avoided |
| Albacore (white) tuna | best limited |
| Coffee, tea, cola, energy drinks, chocolate | best limited |
| Liver, pate, high-dose vitamin A supplements | best limited |
| Unwashed fruits and vegetables | safe when washed well |
| Salmon, sardines, shrimp, pollock, catfish, tilapia, canned light tuna | encouraged |
| Deli/luncheon meats, hot dogs, pate, refrigerated meat spreads | see page |
Source: FDA/EPA Advice About Eating Fish (content current as of 03/05/2024).
Educational reference from public health guidance; not medical advice — consult a clinician/pediatrician.