Health Advisory
Eating Fish And Crabs Caught In New Jersey Waters
Fishing is an enjoyable and relaxing recreation. Fish are an excellent source of protein and nutrients as part of a healthy, well-balanced diet. Many anglers enjoy cooking and eating their own catch. However, elevated levels of potentially harmful chemical contaminants such as dioxin, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), pesticides, mercury and PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonate) have been found in certain fish and crabs in some New Jersey waters. Fish consumption advisories guide citizens on safe consumption practices.
To reduce exposure to harmful chemical contaminants when preparing and eating the fish species taken from the identified waters, it is essential to follow the guidelines provided. The DEP encourages you to consult the Fish Smart-Eat Smart Fish Advisory Guide or FishSmartEatSmartNJ.org when making decisions about eating recreationally caught fish and crabs.
The current fish consumption advisories consists of statewide, regional and water body-specific warnings for a variety of fish species and fish consumers. The New Jersey departments of Environmental Protection and Health and Senior Services have prepared "how to" electronic pamphlets on cleaning and cooking your catch to reduce your exposure to these harmful chemicals. These e-pamphlets are downloadable in multiple languages.
Do not eat fish or shellfish from a waterbody where a harmful algal bloom is present.
For a complete list of state and federal marine fish consumption advisories visit: FishSmart
EatSmartNJ.org
The fish consumption advisories and Fish Smart-Eat Smart website are updated periodically and are available online or from the Division of Science and Research at 609-940-4078 and through the Department of Health’s Food and Drug Safety Program at 609-826-4935.
Check online for fish consumption advisories on the local water body in which you fish! Go to FishSmartEatSmartNJ.org
