On July 9, 2019 the Food and Drug Association (FDA) announced the availability of “Advice about Eating Fish: For Women Who Are or Might Become Pregnant, Breastfeeding Mothers, and Young Children.”   The update follows a 2019 congressional directive mandating that the original 2017 version, “Advice about Eating Fish,” be updated in a manner consistent with current nutrition science recognized by FDA.

The revised advice includes statements that eating fish while pregnant or breastfeeding can provide health benefits that help children’s growth and development—highlighting choices that are lower in mercury. It also states that fish consumption may offer heart health benefits and may lower the risk of obesity.

FDA is accepting public comments on the updated advice until September 9, 2019.