When choosing canned or jarred tuna, it's essential to read the labels that, by law, must indicate the FAO fishing area. But, Lykkers, why is it important to know where the tuna was caught?
Why do we need to understand if the fishing practices of a certain brand are sustainable? Why is it preferable to buy fresh fish and canned tuna from local waters?
Tuna, whether canned or jarred, is a versatile food rich in Omega-3 that is a staple in our pantries, used for salads, quick sauces, pizzas, meatballs, stuffed vegetables, or a simple garlic, oil, and tuna spaghetti dish. However, choosing the right tuna can is not a matter to be overlooked. From the sea to the fishing vessel, and then to the jar or can, traceability, sustainability, and fishing methods are crucial elements to ensure quality and health.
Reading Labels for Informed Choices
Many of us, when faced with supermarket shelves, do not just opt for the cheapest option but ask: which canned tuna should I choose? How do I read the label? In which FAO zone was it caught?
Learning to read the label is easy and above all ensures an informed choice. This aspect is fundamental regardless of the type of food being purchased. In the tuna conservation sector, major brands are increasingly committed to sustainable choices, sourcing from vessels that prefer pole fishing and avoiding Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs). Some companies even specify on the packaging, in addition to the production lot, the FAO zone. Understanding where the tuna is caught means being aware that it does not come from highly polluted areas.
Choosing the Right FAO Fishing Zone
The main fishing zones for tuna are in the Pacific Ocean (FAO 71, 77, 81, 87), the Indian Ocean (FAO 51, 57), and the Atlantic Ocean (FAO 31, 34, 41, 47). Some zones with higher pollution levels to avoid include FAO 61, 67, 71 in the Pacific Ocean, and the northeastern Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico areas.
Among the cleanest zones are FAO 27 and 37, specifically the Mediterranean Sea. Understanding the fishing zone is crucial for making sustainable seafood choices.
Understanding the Packaging Information
When buying tuna, it's important to read the type of tuna caught (yellowfin or skipjack), conservation method (in olive oil or natural), fishing zone, and ingredients (tuna, oil, and salt in quality packaging). Moreover, understanding the fishing methods, which should be as non-destructive as possible, is essential.
Checking the drained weight is another aspect to consider when purchasing. Some brands sell completely shredded tuna, while in others, you'll find a compact and pink fillet. The drained weight is the actual weight of the tuna, excluding liquids like olive oil. Less cooked tuna weighs more as it retains more liquids.
Importance of Fishing Methods and Avoiding FADs
Fishing Aggregating Devices (FADs) are fishing methods used to maximize the catch of skipjack tuna, invasive as they capture not only skipjack tuna but also small yellowfin tuna and other species, causing damage to sustainability.
Due to the high mercury levels and pollutants present in tuna oil, it's crucial to pay attention to the tuna purchased. Fresh tuna generally contains higher levels compared to canned tuna. The difference between yellowfin and skipjack tuna lies in their properties and is essential for informed seafood choices.
Mercury in Tuna: What Type Is Good and Bad?
Video by Dr. Eric Berg DC
