Hazards of the holiday table: Fish to avoid this Christmas
The holidays are a time when fish dishes typically take centre stage on our tables. However, not all fish are safe to consume. Which fish should you avoid to ensure your holiday menu doesn't harm your health? Here's our guidance!
During the festive season, many people opt for fish as the main dish. However, consuming certain types of fish can pose serious health risks. We explain which fish are best avoided during your holiday meal preparations.
Which fish to avoid?
Pangasius is one example of fish to avoid. Although its low price is tempting, the farming conditions of this fish leave much to be desired. In the Mekong Delta, where it is often farmed, pangasius is exposed to poor hygienic conditions, leading to a risk of bacterial infection and the need for antibiotics and hormones in its farming.
Another example is escolar. Although mild in flavour, consuming it can cause unpleasant stomach issues. The fat in its meat is mainly derived from paraffin, which is indigestible for the human body. Eating it in large amounts can lead to digestive problems such as diarrhoea or nausea. Nutritionists often recommend limiting the consumption of escolar, particularly for children, seniors, and pregnant women, for whom the side effects can be especially severe. Therefore, it's worth reconsidering the choice of fish for dinner and considering alternative options rich in healthy fats, such as wild salmon or cod, which are less likely to contain harmful substances.
Another popular fish that often lands on our plates due to its low price is tilapia. However, its nutritional value leaves much to be desired. Even though it appears appetising, it is not the best choice for those seeking a healthy diet. Tilapia contains small amounts of beneficial omega-3 fatty acids but is rich in omega-6 acids, especially arachidonic acid. The latter can exacerbate inflammatory states in the body, which is particularly dangerous for individuals with heart disease, joint problems, allergies, and asthma. This fish is often farmed in unfavourable conditions and may be intensively fed with artificial feeds, further affecting its low nutritional value.
Tuna, popular for its nutritional value, may also harbour certain dangers. Long-living fish like tuna often accumulate heavy metals in their bodies, especially mercury. This happens when the fish consume contaminated food from polluted marine environments. Consuming such fish, particularly in large amounts, can lead to health issues such as nervous system disorders.
Which fish are worth choosing for the Christmas Eve table?
When selecting fish for the Christmas dinner, it is wise to consider not only taste but also their nutritional value. Cod, trout, and salmon are species that deserve special attention.
Cod, with its delicate white meat, is a source of high-quality protein, vitamins, and a low-fat solution for those watching their waistline. Trout, although less popular than carp, offers delicate meat full of selenium and B vitamins, which support heart and brain health. Meanwhile, salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart functions and are beneficial for blood vessels. Thanks to their culinary versatility, these fish can be easily prepared in various ways, from baking and frying to steaming, creating healthy and delicious holiday dishes.
