Fish Consumption Advisories

Fish are a lean and nutritious source of protein. However, some fish and shellfish may contain chemicals that could pose health risks. The Louisiana Departments of Health and Environmental Quality issue fish consumption advisories to help ensure the public safely enjoys Louisiana's fish and shellfish.  

Current Advisories and More Information

• Call the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality at 225.219.3189 or visit their website.
• Call the Louisiana Department of Health at 888.293.7020 or visit their website.
• Eating Recreational Caught Seafood in Louisiana

Advice for Women Who Are Pregnant, May Become Pregnant, or Nursing and Young Children

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, women who are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are nursing and parents and caregivers of young children should follow these guidelines to make sure they're eating healthy and safe seafood.

• Eat between 8 and 12 ounces of a variety of seafood per week, from choices that are lower in mercury.
• Serve one to two servings of fish a week to children, starting at age 2. On average, a serving size is about 1 ounce for children ages 2-3, 2 ounces for children ages 4-7, 3 ounces for children ages 8-10, and 4 ounces for children 11 and older.
• If you eat fish caught by family or friends, check for fish advisories. If there is no advisory, eat only one serving and no other fish that week.

See Frequently Asked Questions for more information.