Tilapia is one of the most commonly consumed seafood globally. Tilapia, a mild-flavored fish, refers to numerous species of freshwater fish that belong to the cichlid family. Many people opt for tilapia because it doesn’t taste very fishy. Tilapia is an easy fish for farming because it grows quickly, thrives in a crowded environment, and consumes a cheap vegetarian diet.

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However, scientific studies have highlighted concerns about the fat content of tilapia. Also, several reports also raise fears surrounding the farming practices of tilapia.

Many people claim tilapia may be unsafe to health, hence should be avoided. China is by far the world’s largest producer of tilapia. They produce over 1.6 million metric tons annually and provide the majority of the United States’ tilapia imports.

Benefits of Tilapia Fish
It’s an Excellent Source of Protein and Nutrients.

Tilapia is a rich source of protein. It contains 26 grams of protein and only 128 calories in 3.5 ounces (100 grams). It also contains vitamins and minerals including niacin, vitamin B12, phosphorus, selenium and potassium.
A 3.5-ounce serving contains:

Calories:128
Carbs:0 grams
Protein:26 grams
Fats:3 grams
Niacin:24% of the RDI
Vitamin B12:31% of the RDI
Phosphorus:20% of the RDI
Selenium:78% of the RDI
Potassium:20% of the RDI

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Dangers of Eating Tilapia
It May Lead to Inflammation

One of the main reasons that fish is considered the healthiest foods on the planet is that fishes like salmon, trout, albacore tuna and sardines contain large amounts of omega-3 fatty acids.

Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats that lower inflammation and blood triglycerides. They have also been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease.

Sadly, tilapia contains 240 mg of omega-3 fatty acids per serving, which is ten times less omega-3 than wild salmon. It’s Omega-6 to Omega-3 Ratio may cause inflammation. Tilapia contains more omega-6 fatty acids than omega-3.

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Omega-6 fatty acids are generally regarded as less healthy than omega-3s. Some people even believe omega-6 fatty acids can be harmful and increase inflammation if eaten excessively. Experts caution against consuming tilapia if you are trying to lower your risk of inflammatory diseases like heart disease.

Reports of Farming Practices Are Disturbing

Several reports over the past decade have revealed some unpleasant details about tilapia farming practices, especially from farms located in China.

Tilapia are often fed with animal feces

One report from the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) revealed that it is common for fish farmed in China to be fed feces from livestock animals. This feeding method is unhealthy since bacteria like Salmonella found in animal waste can contaminate the water, thereby increasing the risk of foodborne diseases.

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Tilapia May Be Polluted With Harmful Chemicals

According to several reports, the FDA rejected over 800 shipments of seafood from China from 2007–2012, including 187 shipments of tilapia.

It stated that the fish did not meet safety standards, as they were polluted with potentially harmful chemicals, including “veterinary drug residues and unsafe additives”.

The Safest Way to Consume Tilapia

Considering the hazardous farming practices involving tilapia in China, it is best to avoid tilapia from China and look for tilapia from other parts of the world instead.

When shopping for farmed tilapia, the best sources include fish from the United States, Canada, the Netherlands, Ecuador or Peru.

Fishes like salmon, trout and herring may be safer and healthier to consume than tilapia, and they contain much more omega-3 fatty acids per serving than tilapia.

Source: http://www.healthdiary365.com/2017/10/21/benefits-and-dangers-of-eating-tilapia-fish/