Mercury in Canned Albacore Tuna

News Release

15 March 2007
TO: ALL IMPORTERS OF FISH AND SEAFOOD PRODUCTS
SUBJECT: MERCURY IN CANNED ALBACORE TUNA
The purpose of this notice is to communicate new information regarding Health
Canadas consumption advisory related to mercury in fish, to remind all importers of
their responsibility to ensure imported fish and seafood products meet Canadian
requirements, and to notify importers that the CFIA is evaluating the current import
program controls for mercury in canned albacore tuna.
On February 19, 2007, Health Canada issued an updated consumption advisory related to
mercury in fish. The advisory was amended to include consumption recommendations for
canned albacore tuna. Based on data collected by both Health Canada and the Canadian Food
Inspection Agency (CFIA) over the past several years, the levels of mercury in canned
albacore tuna, while generally below the Canadian standard of 0.5 ppm, were found to be
higher when compared to other types of canned tuna. The updated Health
Canada consumption advisory is available at the following website:
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ahc-asc/media/advisories-avis/2007/2007_14_e.html.
It is the responsibility of the importer to ensure that imported fish and seafood
products meet Canadian standards. To minimize non-compliant products reaching the
marketplace, importers of canned albacore tuna should work with their suppliers to ensure
products meet the mercury guidelines.
The CFIA has begun evaluating the current import program for imported canned albacore
tuna. Increased sampling and testing of this product for mercury has been initiated. For
further information on the CFIAs import program and to view The Guide to Canadian Regulatory
Requirements and Examination Procedures for Imported Fish, please visit the
following website: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/anima/fispoi/import/guidee.shtml.
Should you have any questions, please contact your local CFIA fish inspection office or
Mr. Rick Grant, A/National Manager, Inspection Systems and HACCP, Fish, Seafood and
Production Division at 613-221-7026.
Mary Ann Green
Director
Fish, Seafood and Production Division
Animal Products Directorate
Canadian Food Inspection Agency

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Mercury in Canned Albacore Tuna

News Release

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