Nutrition expert warned: which fish is dangerous to eat in Ukraine

Risks of Consuming Fish in Ukraine

According to ХВИЛЯ: Nutrition expert Anzhelika Rybko warned Ukrainians about the risks of consuming certain types of fish, pointing out the possibility of parasite infection and accumulation of heavy metals. In her recommendations, she noted that some types of fish may contain dangerous parasites, particularly opisthorchis, which affect the human liver. The risk of contracting opisthorchiasis significantly increases with the consumption of semi-raw or insufficiently processed fish.

Careful Fish Types

Among the types of fish that one should be especially cautious with, the expert listed:

• bream
• gudgeon
• carp
• roach
• zander
• redfin
• bleak
• roach
• bream

She also emphasized that large predatory marine fish such as sharks, swordfish, tuna, mackerel, and marlin can accumulate dangerous substances, including mercury and cadmium. Additionally, it is not recommended to consume fish that feed on carrion; such species include catfish, pangasius, and tilapia.

Anzhelika Rybko also provided information on desirable types of fish, which include:

• keta
• herring
• sockeye
• cod
• pollock
• mackerel
• herring
• sprat

She also recommends consuming seafood and algae, such as mussels, shrimp, and squid, which are safe to eat. In Ukraine, as of December 1, fishing has been partially banned, which may impact the fish market and the availability of safe products.

Consume omega from small fish species, the expert noted.

The expert's address emphasizes the importance of caution when choosing fish for consumption, especially in conditions where environmental factors may affect food safety. The fishing ban set to begin in December may be an important step in ensuring the population has access to quality and safe seafood; however, it is also crucial to adhere to recommendations regarding fish species selection to avoid health risks. This issue is becoming particularly relevant against the backdrop of growing interest in healthy eating and food safety in Ukraine.