The study findings, which were funded by a US foundation and published in
Environmental Science and Technology, confirm that while PBDEs are present in
many fish in North America, there is no evidence to suggest any harm to humans
from eating fish with the very low levels reported. Fresh water fish such as
striped bass and mountain whitefish were found to generally have higher levels
than salt-water species; rates in wild salmon are highly variable; and there was
little difference detected between wild and farmed salmon.
The difference in levels found in wild or farmed fish is recorded in parts per
billion and the levels reported are very low. said Mary Ellen Walling, Executive
Director, BCSFA. There are two important things for consumers to know. First
and most importantly, both wild and farmed salmon are a healthy and nutritious
food with significant health benefits. And secondly even though wild BC
Chinook had the highest levels reported, there is no meaningful difference
between the levels found in wild and farmed salmon. Both are safe.
Fish and other seafood products are monitored by the Canadian Food Inspection
Agency, which ensures that levels are within acceptable limits set by Health
Canada. As well, the Canadian aquaculture industry takes a proactive approach
to addressing issues related to food safety. Industry research programs focus on
ensuring food safety and environmental sustainability. For more information on
PBDEs, please visit www.salmonfarmers.org/resources/links_pbdes.htm
According to the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, in 2002 the Canadian
aquaculture industry reported operating revenues of $732.3 million up 4.9% from
$697.8 million in 2001, with sales of products and services reaching $711.8
million, a 6.0% increase. Of that total, finfish, mostly salmon, accounted for just
over 90% of total sales, or $644.3 million. British Columbia, Canada's largest
aquaculture-producing province, generated sales of $329.6 million in 2002, up
12.3% from 2001.
Source: British Columbia Salmon Farming - 9th August 2004