The Dangers of Mercury in Squid: What You Need to Know?

By. Amma - 23 Aug 2025

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lautnusantara.com Mercury, or quicksilver, is a naturally occurring element found in the Earth's crust. However, industrial activities such as coal burning and mining have increased the amount of mercury in the environment. When mercury enters water, bacteria convert it into a more toxic form, methylmercury. Fish and squid absorb methylmercury from water and food, and this content accumulates in their bodies over time.

1. Why Is Mercury Dangerous?
Mercury, especially in the form of methylmercury, can damage the nervous system, kidneys, and liver. High levels of mercury exposure can cause serious health problems, especially in vulnerable groups.

  • In children and fetuses: Exposure to methylmercury during pregnancy and childhood can disrupt brain and nervous system development. This can lead to developmental delays, cognitive problems, and impaired coordination.
  • In adults: Symptoms of mercury poisoning can include numbness or tingling in the fingers and toes, tremors, impaired vision, and memory problems.

2. Squid and Mercury: Is Squid Safe to Eat?
Squid is a marine animal with relatively low mercury levels compared to large predatory fish like bluefin tuna or swordfish. This is because squid have a shorter lifespan and are lower on the food chain. However, like all seafood, squid still contains traces of methylmercury.

3. Safe Tips for Eating Squid:

  • Consume in Moderation: For most adults, consuming squid in moderate amounts does not pose significant health risks.
  • Vary your seafood intake: Don't rely solely on squid as your sole source of seafood. Combine it with other fish known to have low mercury levels, such as salmon, shrimp, and catfish.
  • Caution for Vulnerable Groups: Pregnant women, women planning to become pregnant, breastfeeding mothers, and children should limit their consumption of seafood that may contain mercury.

Overall, squid is safe to consume as long as it is consumed in moderation. The most important thing is to make sure you have a balanced diet and don't overdo it on one particular type of seafood.

 

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