Q. “What do you think of tuna or salmon in pouches? I like adding them to my salads as the protein. Compared to lunchmeat, it seems a lot less processed and it’s much lower in sodium. Is it OK to eat this kind of fish 3-4 times a week?”
- A. Whether fresh, canned, or in pouches, fish is a fantastic alternative to processed lunch meats. Not only is it lower in sodium and other additives, it’s a good source of omega-3 fats and a great way to add protein to your lunch! Compared to canned fish, the vacuum-sealed pouches also have a fresher flavor and texture. However, there is one potential concern with eating it 3-4 times a week.
- Tuna, especially white albacore, is relatively high in mercury. To avoid over-exposure to this potentially hazardous metal, adults should limit their consumption of white or albacore tuna to no more than one serving a week. Chunk light tuna, which is lower in mercury, can be safely enjoyed up to twice a week. Salmon, on the other hand, contains little to no mercury – and is also much higher in omega-3s.
- Because you like to have fish 3-4 times a week, I suggest selecting chunk light tuna instead of white albacore (bonus: it’s also cheaper!) and alternating that with salmon.
- Canned tuna image courtesy of Shutterstock