Mercury concentration in fish from Irish waters in 1993

During 1993, a total of 81 samples, covering 18 finfish and 4 shellfish species were collected and the edible portion analysed for total mercury content in accordance with the European Commission's Decision of 19 May 1993. In finfish the concentration of mercury ranged from 0.01 to 0.39 with a mean of 0.10 and in shellfish the concentration also ranged from 0.01 to 0.39 but with a mean of 0.04µg/g wet weight. These levels are low and are well within the maximum limits set by the EC for mercury in fisheries products. The total mercury concentration in Irish shellfish is very low and is generally low in the commercial catch landed at Irish ports. This survey confirms previous studies that show Irish seafoods are effectively free from mercury contamination