According to U.S. guidance, what is the maximum weekly intake allowance for Light or Skipjack Tuna for expectant parents?
12 ounces per week
Skipjack tuna, frequently labeled simply as 'light' tuna, is derived from a smaller fish species that matures more quickly, resulting in a much lower accumulation of mercury compared to its larger counterparts like Albacore. Due to this favorable mercury profile, the consumption guidelines are substantially more relaxed for this variety. Official recommendations from the FDA and EPA permit pregnant individuals to consume up to twelve ounces of light or Skipjack tuna per week. This larger allowance means that a person could potentially consume two or three standard-sized cans of light tuna throughout the week without surpassing the recommended safety threshold, assuming they are not simultaneously consuming other fish high in mercury.
