Recent test results show that the mercury levels in P.E.I. trout are well within acceptable levels, and people of all ages need not limit the amount of Island freshwater trout they eat.
"The latest test results are from samples taken in July of this year from five freshwater lakes and ponds across P.E.I.," said Dr. Lamont Sweet, Chief Health Officer. Independent analysis of samples was done by the Environment Canada Quality Laboratory in Moncton and Canada Food Inspection Laboratory in Dartmouth and the results from both labs were consistent.
He also advised that there is no restriction on the amount of P.E.I. shellfish that people should eat. "Shellfish caught in the province can also be safely consumed as mercury levels in these fish are also within acceptable Health Canada levels," advised Dr. Sweet. However, he added, Health Canada has recommended that swordfish, shark, and fresh and frozen tuna (not canned tuna) may contain mercury levels above the guideline of 0.5 parts per million of mercury.
"As a result, it is recommended that all Canadian children 13 years of age and under, and Canadian women of child-bearing age should limit eating these fish to a maximum of once a month. All other persons should eat these fish no more than once a week," stated Dr. Sweet. He stressed that canned tuna can be eaten safely by persons of all ages because tuna that are canned are smaller fish and do not contain high levels of mercury.