Minnesota updates fish eating guidelines over mercury and chemical concerns

(KNSI) – State health officials have updated recommendations for how much fish Minnesotans should eat from certain waters, citing concerns about mercury and PFAS, so-called “forever chemicals.”

According to the Minnesota Department of Health, fish remain a healthy part of most diets. But depending on where a fish was caught, what species it is, and who is eating it, some limits apply.

Mercury is the bigger concern, especially in northeast Minnesota
New guidelines now apply to Cook, Lake, and St. Louis counties, where fish tend to carry higher mercury concentrations. Mercury enters waterways through air pollution and builds up in fish tissue over time. Larger, older fish carry the most. Regular exposure can damage the kidneys, liver, and nervous system and affect development in young children.

New length-based guidelines for walleye and northern pike mean people can eat more fish by choosing smaller catches. Children under 15 and people who are or could become pregnant should follow the stricter sensitive-group limits.

Fish from the Vermillion River in Scott and Dakota counties have tested positive for PFAS, chemicals linked to low birth weight, immune issues in children, and increased cancer risk. The river has been added to MDH’s list of waterways with consumption guidelines.

For lakes, use the DNR’s LakeFinder tool. For rivers and creeks, guidelines are posted on the MDH website.

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