Is Canned Tuna Safe During Pregnancy

Status

caution Last reviewed: 2026-05-16 · Confidence: high

Reason

Canned light tuna is allowed in moderation. Mercury is the main concern. Albacore/white tuna should be limited more.

Safe Amount

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: 2 to 3 servings per week of canned light tuna (about 4 oz per serving). Albacore/white tuna is higher in mercury; use only 1 serving per week from the FDA 'Good Choices' list.

Effects

Pregnancy: Safe only within official serving limits and with lower-mercury types.
Mother: Helps provide protein and nutrients, while lowering mercury exposure by choosing lower-mercury tuna.
Baby: Too much mercury can harm brain development.

Trimester Notes

1st Trimester: No trimester-specific limit from FDA/NHS beyond the weekly guidance.
2nd Trimester: No trimester-specific limit from FDA/NHS beyond the weekly guidance.
3rd Trimester: No trimester-specific limit from FDA/NHS beyond the weekly guidance.

Conditions & Warnings

Choose canned light tuna, including skipjack, or other lower-mercury fish.
Do not eat raw tuna. Eat only tuna that is cooked or canned.
Avoid high-mercury tuna types such as bigeye; limit albacore/white tuna.

Alternatives

Canned salmon
Sardines
Pollock
Catfish
Frozen or fresh lower-mercury fish

References

FDA
https://www.fda.gov/food/consumers/advice-about-eating-fish
FDA
https://www.fda.gov/food/consumers/questions-answers-fdaepa-advice-about-eating-fish-those-who-might-become-or-are-pregnant-or
NHS
https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/foods-to-avoid/