Fish at Easter: Bogotá's Ministry of Health warns of species with high mercury content

As part of Holy Week and the increase in fish consumption generated during it, the Ministry of Health of Bogotá called on citizens to purchase fish products in places where refrigeration measures and cleaning conditions are preserved, in order to avoid food poisoning. in poor condition or containing mercury.

The Undersecretary of Public Health, Manuel González, warned in a dialogue with RCN Radio that, during this Major Week, the people of Bogota should be cautious about the type of fish they buy, noting that species such as catfish or mota fish contain high levels of mercury, due to their metal-rich diet. In fact, he recalled that sales of these two kinds of fish are prohibited in the city.

Likewise, the official warned citizens that they should not purchase the so-called river lobster (Procambarus clarkii), since its consumption and marketing in Bogotá are also prohibited, because as it is an exotic species with invasive potential, it can generate impacts on human health as a transmission of parasites.

“Therefore, its use in typical food and beverage preparations (some so-called 'aphrodisiacs') is prohibited. If you find this species being marketed or used as food, contact the Ministry of Environment at 317 427 6828 (Mobile Wildlife Rescue Unit),” said the Ministry of Health.

You can also read: These are the recommendations of the Ministry of Health for Holy Week

The Bogotá Undersecretary of Public Health also recommended that comparators refrain from buying seafood in street stalls or places where product prices are below normal, in order to avoid consuming spoiled food that could have an impact on health.

The Ministry of Health also informed consumers that, in the case of purchasing frozen fish, they should verify that the product is not soft and that the color of their meat is pink or white. It is also important that, in the event that you perceive a strange or rust-like smell, you should not buy it either.

As for dried fish, the entity reported that the texture of this food must be firm, with a uniform yellow color, it should not have reddish or greenish spots, and in addition, it must be completely packed and preserved at room temperature.

You can also read: Holy Week in Bogotá: four plans for you to enjoy and rediscover the city on these days of rest

In the event that you have symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, cramps or general malaise, after consuming seafood during Holy Week, the Bogotá Undersecretary of Health called for you to avoid self-medication and immediately go to the city's medical services.

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