Beyond industrial pollution, heavy metals occur naturally in our environment. In marine environments, some of these metals like mercury can convert into more harmful forms such as methylmercury.  

These metals can enter our food supply chain when fish and seafood come into contact with water, sediments and the seabed. This is particularly the case for shellfish and predatory fish due to their habitat and feeding patterns.

While cases of severe poisoning due to the consumption of fish and seafood containing heavy metals are rare, studies have shown that long-term intake of high levels of heavy metals may lead to health problems. It is thus important to manage dietary exposure to these contaminants.

To protect consumers, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has set regulatory standards for heavy metals in fish and seafood based on the internationally accepted principle of “As Low as Reasonably Achievable”.

While regulations have been put in place, food safety is ultimately a joint responsibility. The food and farming industry can also play a part in keeping the levels of heavy metals in fish and seafood as low as possible for consumers.

What can the food and farming industry do?

While it is not possible to eliminate naturally occurring heavy metals from fish and seafood, there are some ways the industry can help to reduce the levels of heavy metals and provide consumers with safer food options.

1. Responsible sourcing of fish and seafood

• Obtain fish and seafood from waters that are regularly monitored by the relevant authorities in the source country.
• Source from licensed suppliers that adopt clean and sustainable practices. This ensures the fish and seafood have been properly stored and inspected.

2. Adopting good aquaculture and farming practices

• Use only approved feeds in accordance with regulatory requirements.
• Conduct regular monitoring of water quality and farm conditions.
• Find out more about good aquaculture practices for marine aquaculture farms on the SFA website.

Food safety is a joint responsibility. While SFA regularly reviews regulations to stay updated on the latest advancements in food safety, the industry also plays a crucial role by adopting good practices to reduce the risks for consumers. At the same time, consumers should also stay informed and make conscious decisions about the food they eat. 

More resources are available at SFA Risk at a Glance webpage.