Can You Eat King Mackerel While Pregnant?

🐟 Seafood

HomeFood SafetySeafoodking mackerel
🚫 Avoid
Very high mercury (0.730 ppm); large predatory mackerel. FDA advises pregnant women to avoid.
🌡 Mercury Level

0.73 ppm - High

The FDA recommends pregnant women eat 2-3 servings of low-mercury fish per week. Fish with mercury levels below 0.1 ppm are considered low mercury. Above 0.3 ppm is considered high.

✅ Safe Alternatives
  • ✅ Atlantic mackerel (low mercury)
  • ✅ salmon
📏 Serving Note

Avoid entirely

❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I eat king mackerel while pregnant?
No, king mackerel should be avoided during pregnancy. Very high mercury (0.730 ppm); large predatory mackerel. FDA advises pregnant women to avoid.
What happens if I accidentally eat king mackerel during pregnancy?
A single small exposure is unlikely to cause immediate harm. Monitor for unusual symptoms like nausea, fever, or diarrhea, and contact your doctor if you have concerns.
What are safer alternatives to king mackerel during pregnancy?
Consider these pregnancy-safe alternatives: Atlantic mackerel (low mercury), salmon.
Is king mackerel safe in all trimesters of pregnancy?
Avoid king mackerel throughout your entire pregnancy. The risks don't change by trimester.