Is King mackerel safe during pregnancy?
High-mercury fish — FDA advises not eating king mackerel while pregnant or breastfeeding. Swap for salmon, shrimp, cod or light tuna.
What the sources say
King mackerel is on the FDA/EPA "Choices to Avoid" list (highest mercury). Mercury can harm a developing baby's brain and nervous system and passes into breast milk; cooking or trimming skin and fat does not lower it. If you've already eaten some, FDA advises choosing lower-mercury fish going forward. Lower-mercury "Best Choices" (2–3 servings a week) include salmon, shrimp, cod, sardines and canned light tuna. Atlantic and Pacific chub mackerel are Best Choices.
Common alternatives
Also listed as
kingfish, king fish, king mackerel steak
Sources
- FDA: Advice about Eating Fish
- FDA: Questions & Answers from the FDA/EPA Advice about Eating Fish
- ACOG: Healthy Eating During Pregnancy
- CDC: Mercury and Breastfeeding
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.