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Tuna is widely consumed in the American and Japanese diets, being second only to shrimp as a preferred seafood option. It is also commonly enjoyed as tinned tuna in developed countries. While there are compelling reasons to include tuna in one's diet, it is essential to consider the drawbacks associated with its consumption as well.
Were you aware that there exist 15 distinct species of tuna fish? Nonetheless, merely five of them are deemed genuine tuna, being classified under the genus Thunnus.
Albacore tuna, a smaller species, are always in motion and have a bullet-like shape. They can be found in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian oceans, as well as the Mediterranean Sea.
Southern bluefin tuna, a type of large, fast-swimming fish, can be found in open waters of the Southern Hemisphere. According to the Australian Marine Conservation Society, the species is critically endangered, with only 5% of its original population remaining due to fishing.
Bigeye tuna are found in tropical and temperate oceans, but not the Mediterranean Sea. They are long and streamlined, migrating extensively and swimming continuously over vast distances.
Pacific bluefin tuna, classified as a threatened species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, are known for their size and longevity, with a lifespan of up to 40 years. These tunas inhabit the northern Pacific Ocean, spanning the coastlines of East Asia to western North America.
The Atlantic bluefin is found in both the western and eastern Atlantic Ocean, as well as the Mediterranean Sea. It is known for being one of the largest, fastest, and most visually appealing fish worldwide, but sadly, it is also highly endangered.
Tuna has been a dietary staple for many civilizations across centuries. The Phoenician technique, known as Almadraba, is an ancient and intricate method for capturing and harvesting Atlantic bluefin tuna that has been used for ages.
The Almadraba is a conventional technique of catching tuna by employing a complex arrangement of net fences. This method is still practiced in Portugal, Spain, Morocco, and Italy. In Sicily, it is referred to as Tonnara.
Tuna was initially canned during the early 20th century. Prior to this, sardines were the sole fish enclosed in cans. Nevertheless, in 1903, when the sardine harvest off the southern California coast fell short, several ingenious cannery proprietors began filling vacant sardine cans with tuna. As a result, a fresh industry emerged.
Canned tuna comes in different varieties: brine, spring water, sunflower, or olive oil. Tuna in water contains more omega-3s and fewer calories compared to tuna in oil. However, choosing tuna in brine will result in a higher sodium (salt) content. Nutritionally, water-packed tuna offers pure protein and a milder tuna taste.
That said, oil-packed tuna has a softer texture and a stronger tuna flavor. Be aware, however, that while protein levels are the same, the fat content of tuna in oil increases.
Tuna is known for being a great source of vitamin D in our diet. Additionally, it is packed with omega-3 fatty acids that can lower cholesterol and enhance cardiovascular well-being. Moreover, tuna boasts an abundant amount of potassium, which aids in the reduction of blood pressure.
Tuna is a rich source of nutrients like vitamin C, selenium, manganese, and zinc, known for enhancing the immune system.
According to Scientific American, certain types of fish like bluefish, shark, swordfish, wild sturgeon, opah (sunfish), and bigeye tuna are known to have a higher mercury content. This is due to their size and their ability to absorb methylmercury from their diet and water through their gills.
When incorporating tuna into your diet, it is crucial to be cautious of mercury exposure. Consuming certain types of tuna in a single serving could exceed the recommended weekly limit for safe mercury consumption.
According to the Environmental Defense Fund, bigger species like bigeye and albacore have higher levels of mercury than light and skipjack tuna.
Limiting mercury consumption is vital for the health of children and pregnant women.
Tuna is a delicious and nutritious food that can be a wonderful option to introduce fish to children. However, there are specific types of tuna that are more suitable for younger taste preferences.
Canned light tuna is considered a top choice for children's nutrition by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They advise a weekly consumption of two to three servings.
Tuna is a highly sought-after fish, but unsustainable fishing practices have put certain species at risk. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) states that Pacific bluefin tuna are severely overfished, while the Atlantic bigeye and Indian Ocean yellowfin tuna are facing increased catch levels, signaling overfishing.
The WWF highlights that four species, namely skipjack, yellowfin, bigeye, and albacore, dominate the market with skipjack comprising over fifty percent of the global tuna catch, according to the data.
According to the WWF, the highly vulnerable bluefin tuna makes up a mere 1% of the worldwide catch. Interestingly, Atlantic bluefin tuna are now being spotted in UK waters once again during the warmer months, thanks to the rising sea temperatures. It is worth noting that tuna fishing is prohibited in all UK waters. In the event that a fisherman unintentionally catches an Atlantic bluefin tuna, it is mandatory for them to promptly release it back into the water.
To address the concerning decrease in fish numbers, more high-quality tuna are now being bred in enclosed nets and nourished with smaller fish in the ocean.
Former fishermen in Australia are currently farming Southern bluefish tuna, which is considered the most valuable sector of South Australia's aquaculture industry, according to the Marine Education Society of Australasia (MESA).
The farming of Atlantic bluefin, a vulnerable species, is happening in the Mediterranean, North America, and Japan.
Japan is renowned for being the largest consumer of tuna, particularly the esteemed Atlantic bluefin variety used in gourmet sushi. Additionally, Japan it is also the leading nation in tuna farming research
Although conservation efforts should be commended, a study from 2016 reveals that rising ocean temperatures are negatively impacting tuna populations in the Indian Ocean. The rapid warming has led to a decline in marine phytoplankton, which is crucial for the survival of bigeye tuna.
To contribute to the preservation of tuna species, look out for the MSC label when purchasing fresh or canned tuna. The MSC label represents the Marine Stewardship Council Fisheries Standard, certifying products as sustainable.
See also: Simple lifestyle changes that help the environment
Excessive consumption of tuna can adversely affect your health, despite its delectable taste and nutritional value. Why?
Explore further to have insights into the characteristics of this remarkable, swift, and endangered fish.
Is it still safe to eat tuna?
The world's most valuable fish is threatened by extinction
HEALTH Nature
Tuna, known for its delightful taste and pleasant texture, is a popular choice for a snack or meal. This species of fish is rich in nutrients and holds significant commercial value. However, the overfishing of tuna poses a serious threat to its existence, risking its extinction. Although tuna offers numerous health benefits, excessive consumption can be hazardous. Therefore, we must consider whether it is still advisable to include tuna in our diets.
Explore further to have insights into the characteristics of this remarkable, swift, and endangered fish.