Tinned tuna: Acorns Nurseries ban over mercury levels concern

Nurseries ban tinned tuna over mercury level worry A nurseries director has said it was an "easy decision" to ban tinned tuna and replace it with pilchards and mackerel after new research revealed it can contain toxic levels of mercury.

Cherie Wilson, who manages 11 Acorns Nurseries across south Wales and south west England, said the decision was made after conversations with parents and the chefs.

The study by campaign groups Bloom and Foodwatch sampled 148 cans of tuna from five European countries which all tested positive for mercury contamination.

But Europêche, which represents fishing fleets in the EU, said it "strongly refutes" the claims, and the amounts required to pose a health risk were "significantly higher" than what is typically consumed.

The tuna canning process means that mercury concentration is doubled or tripled, according to Bloom.

"We heard that tuna may pose a risk over time, especially with young children," said Ms Wilson.

She said it was a surprise to hear about the findings, as tuna has "always been an option" on their menu.

Alternatives have since been introduced at Acorns Nurseries, whose sites include Bristol, Cardiff and Newport.

"We are offering other oily fish such as pilchards and mackerel, which supports the growth and development in children," she said.

Tests carried out showed all 148 cans of tuna tested positive for mercury contamination.

The samples were bought in France, Germany, England, Spain and Italy.

Currently, EU and UK regulations set the mercury limit in tuna at 1 mg/kg. The mercury threshold is three times higher for tuna than for other fish species.

Aisling Pigott-Jones, a member of the British Dietetic Association who works in Wales, thinks the campaigners have a point.

She said tinned tuna consumption should be "limited for children", but disagrees that it should be banned in schools.

"Eating tuna too regularly can mean higher than recommended mercury intake," she said.

"About twice a week is recommended as safe for children."

She highlighted the benefits of eating the saltwater fish, including its relatively low price.

"Tinned tuna is a good source of protein for young people, especially in the cost of living crisis".

She said other options were available such as tinned salmon, sardines and mackerel.

Where does the mercury come from? The poisonous element is released by mining and burning coal and ends up in the ocean.

It builds up in tuna when they consume contaminated prey.

People are then exposed to the element when they eat the fish, one of the most widely consumed around the world.