There are many who believe that farm-raised fish are genetically modified or enhanced with hormones, but this is far from the truth. According to Linda O’Dierno, an Outreach Specialist for the National Aquaculture Association, “U.S. regulations prohibit the use of hormones or antibiotics to promote growth in farm raised fish.”
However, this isn’t the case for other countries. As a matter of fact, over 90 percent of the fish consumed within the U.S. is farm-raised fish that is produced in other countries. The U.S. raises only 2.5 percent of all farm-raised fish produced in the world and tends to be more expensive because of the regulations under which the fish are raised.
When it comes to determining which type of fish is best to purchase and consume, nutritional content, price, safety and sustainability all come into play. One of the best ways to know if the sources from which the fish you are about to purchase is safe is to consult the website of the Seafood Watch program at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. They keep track of evolving industry practices and environmental issues all over the world, and you can learn the region from which the fish is imported, how it was raised and under what regulations. There is also a smartphone app available for consumer’s convenience and even a printable guide that can fit in your wallet to use on the go.
Farm Raised Vs. Wild Caught: The Truth About Which Fish Is Healthiest was originally published on blackdoctor.org
