The seafood industry today said it will educate its consumers to follow the new joint guidelines on safe mercury consumption expected by the end of this year from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).  The US Tuna Foundation and the National Fisheries Institute reiterated their support of FDA and EPA in developing a joint advisory on mercury.

"Having a single set of standards will clear up the confusion felt by Americans when they're at the grocery store or fish market," said Dr. Lillian Beard, spokesperson for the US Tuna Foundation.  "As a practicing pediatrician, I have always recommended following guidelines set by the FDA, and passed along information on those standards to my patients, so they can appropriately balance safety concerns against the benefits of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and low fat protein found in canned tuna."

The US Tuna Foundation and the National Fisheries Institute will continue educating consumers about the vast health benefits of eating fish, including a reduced risk of heart disease risk, potential breast and colon cancer prevention, and easing of arthritis pain.

"The benefits of eating fish far outweigh any risks -- That's why we look forward to working with these two agencies to further public awareness of safe consumption practices," stated Linda Candler, National Fisheries Institute.

The American Heart Association, and other health organizations continue to recommend eating 2-3 servings of fish a week as part of a healthy and balanced diet.

For more information on canned tuna, its benefits, and new ways to enjoy it, go to www.tunafacts.com.  The U.S. Tuna Foundation is the national organization representing canned tuna processors and the fishermen who supply them.

Resources
For more information on seafood, its benefits and new ways to enjoy it, go to www.eatseafood.com.
For tuna specific facts, visit the US Tuna Foundation website:   http://www.tunafacts.com/