What types of fish should diners avoid due to high mercury levels?

Swordfish, tilefish, shark, and king mackerel are fish that contain dangerously high levels of mercury and should be avoided, especially by pregnant women, young children, and frequent fish consumers.

What is the issue with mislabeled fish in restaurants?

Catfish, amberjack, and red snapper are commonly substituted for more expensive fish like sole, haddock, cod, and tilapia. Diners should ask questions about the origin and freshness of the seafood to ensure they are getting what they expect.

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Experts Expose Risky Restaurant Seafood Dishes to Avoid

Q: Why are stone crabs from Florida's Gulf of Mexico coast a concern?

Stone crabs are being overfished in this region, and the practice of removing their claws before throwing them back into the water is harming the ecosystem. Diners should think twice before ordering stone crabs from this area.

13 Oct

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Summary

Certain fish like swordfish, tilefish, and shark contain high mercury levels
Crab claws and stone crabs are unsustainably harvested
Catfish, amberjack, and red snapper are commonly mislabeled in restaurants

Experts Expose Risky Restaurant Seafood Dishes to Avoid

As of 2025-10-13T18:23:08+00:00, experts are cautioning diners to be cautious when ordering seafood at restaurants. Some fish, like swordfish, tilefish, shark, and king mackerel, contain dangerously high levels of mercury, which can pose serious health risks, especially for pregnant women, young children, and those who consume a lot of fish.

Additionally, certain types of crab, such as stone crabs from Florida's Gulf of Mexico coast, are being overfished, and the practice of removing their claws before throwing them back into the water is harming the ecosystem. Experts recommend avoiding these items and instead opting for more sustainable choices like salmon, trout, shrimp, oysters, and clams.

Another major concern is the widespread mislabeling of fish in restaurants. Catfish, amberjack, and red snapper are commonly substituted for more expensive species like sole, haddock, cod, and tilapia. Diners are advised to ask questions about the origin and freshness of the seafood to ensure they are getting what they expect.