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Tuna, Salmon, Sardines & Mackerel

Canned Fish Review 2025

Be careful with canned fish! Our tests showed which tuna, salmon, sardines, and mackerel are best or worst based on amounts of beneficial omega-3s (EPA and DHA) and contaminants (mercury and arsenic). Differences among albacore (white), skipjack, and yellow tuna, as well as sockeye (red) and pink salmon, sardines, and herring kippers are revealed and explained in this new report.

Tuna, Salmon, Sardines & Mackerel Review

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CL Answer

Is it better to eat farmed salmon or wild salmon? Which one has more omega-3s and less contamination with PCBs, mercury, etc.?

Learn more about wild caught vs. farm raised salmon, including omega-3 content and contamination with PCBs, mercury, and other toxins.

Wild Caught vs. Farm Raised Salmon -- salmon on a dinner plate with fork and knife

Product Review

Fish Oil, Krill Oil, and Algal Oil Omega-3 (DHA & EPA) Supplements Review

See Our Omega-3 Top Picks and Avoid Rancid Fish Oils.

Fish Oil and Other Marine Oil Supplements Reviewed by ConsumerLab.com

CL Answer

To avoid mercury, I tried skipjack tuna instead of albacore, but I didn't like the taste. Is it safe to continue to eat albacore if just once a week?

Concerned about mercury in albacore tuna? Find out how often it is safe to consume albacore tuna, and the best canned tuna and salmon alternatives to albacore tuna that are high in omega-3s and low in contamination with mercury. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.

Canned Fish Review 2025

CL Answer

How good are sardines? Are they healthy and safe? What did CL's tests find?

Find out amounts of omega-3s (DHA and EPA), protein, and vitamin D in sardines, as well as contaminants mercury and arsenic based on ConsumerLab's tests.

Are Sardines Safe and Healthy To Eat? -- Can of Sardines

Product Review

L-Lysine Supplements Review

Read L-Lysine Labels Carefully. Some Can Fool You.

Product Review

Astaxanthin Supplements Review

See Which Astaxanthin Products Passed or Failed CL's Tests

Astaxanthin supplements reviewed by ConsumerLab.com

CL Answer

What is the best source of vitamin D3 -- from lanolin in sheep's wool or from fish oil?

Learn more about vitamin D3 sources, such as lanolin (from wool) and fish oil, as well as their prices and their effects.

What is the best source of vitamin D3 -- from lanolin in sheep's wool or from fish oil?

News Release

June 12, 2025

Best & Worst Canned Tuna, Salmon, Sardines & Mackerel

White Plains, NY, June 12, 2025 – High levels of mercury and/or arsenic were found in several popular brands of canned tuna and sardines recently tested by ConsumerLab.com.

News Release

October 24, 2023

Best Fish Oil and Omega-3 Supplements? ConsumerLab Tests Reveal Some Are Rancid

White Plains, New York, October 24, 2023 —  Recent ConsumerLab tests of popular fish, krill, and algal oil supplements revealed several products to be rancid. Fish and marine oils that are rancid, or “oxidized,” can have an extremely unpleasant odor and taste, and may be less safe and effective.

News Release

August 31, 2023

Some L-Lysine Supplement Labels May Be Misleading, According to ConsumerLab Tests

White Plains, New York, August 31, 2023 —  Lysine (L-lysine) supplements may help prevent cold sores, genital herpes lesions, and canker sores, and are also promoted to slow hair loss, and treat herpes infections in cats.

CL Answer

Is DPA an important omega-3 fatty acid? It's been promoted as more "powerful" than EPA and DHA.

Find out more about DPA (docosapentaenoic acid), the third most prevalent omega-3 fatty acid in fish oil. Learn how much DPA is in supplements and fish, plus the clinical evidence for DPA, whether it can improve heart health, lower triglycerides and more. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.

Is DPA an important omega-3 fatty acid? -- Fish Oil Supplements

CL Answer

Can I use a home test for mercury to check for mercury in fish, like canned tuna, fresh fish, and sushi?

Find out if home mercury test kits can be used to test fish, such as canned tuna, fresh fish or sushi for mercury contamination. Plus, find out how much mercury ConsumerLab found in popular canned tuna and canned salmon. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.

salmon filet with test tubes and beakers for mercury testing

Product Review

Multivitamin and Multimineral Supplements Review

Best Multivitamins -- Caution with Gummies

CL Answer

Which foods are a good source of B vitamins?

Find out which foods are a good source of B vitamins (like folate and B-12) and when you should take Vitamin B supplements.

Good Sources of B Vitamins -- selection of healthy foods including eggs, rice, nuts, seeds, salmon, chicken

Product Review

Vitamin D Supplements Review (Including Calcium, Magnesium, Vitamin K, and Boron)

Find the Best Vitamin D Supplement and Avoid Problems

Vitamin D Review 2024

CL Answer

Do any supplements help with COVID-19? Do supplements like vitamin D, zinc, vitamin C, or herbals work?

Find out if natural remedies & supplements for coronavirus such as zinc, vitamin C, garlic, or elderberry help to prevent or treat COVID-19.

Supplements for Coronavirus (COVID-19)? -- mask and pills

Recalls & Warnings

April 03, 2023

Smoked Salmon Recalled Due to Listeria Risk

On March 14, 2023, Seven Seas International USA, LLC issued a voluntary recall of 295 cases of Biltmore Smoked Sockeye Salmon after routine testing by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services discovered the presence of Listeria monocytogenes or Salmonella.

Product Review

L-Tryptophan and 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) Supplements Review

Choose the Best L-Tryptophan and 5-HTP Supplements. CL Tests Identify High Quality L-Tryptophan and 5-HTP (5-Hydroxy-L-Tryptophan) at the Best Value.

L-Tryptophan and 5-HTP (5-Hydroxy-L-tryptophan) Supplements Reviewed By Consumerlab.com

Product Review

B Vitamin Supplements Review (B Complexes, B6, B12, Biotin, Folate, Niacin, Riboflavin & More)

See Our Top Picks and Which 5 Failed Testing

B Vitamins Review 2024

CL Answer

What does "Contains a Bioengineered Food Ingredient" mean on the label of a supplement or food? Should I be concerned?

Learn about bioengineered ingredients in foods and dietary supplements, where to find a list of bioengineered foods and what to look for on labels, as well as where you can find information about bioengineered ingredients in dietary supplements in ConsumerLab's product reviews.

Bioengineered Foods and Dietary Supplements -- Bioengineered Seal

CL Answer

What is the difference between fish oil and cod liver oil? Is one better than the other?

Find out how regular fish oil and cod liver oil differ including amounts of omega-3s EPA and DHA, vitamin A and vitamin D, which is best to suit your needs. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.

Fish Oil vs. Cod Liver Oil -- bottle of cod liver oil pouring into spoon

CL Answer

Which supplements and foods help with gout and which may worsen it?

Find out about the effects on uric acid levels and gout of fish and fish oil, coffee, beer, animal meat, milk proteins, vegetable proteins, fructose, lemon juice, tart cherry juice, vitamin A, vitamin C, and niacin

Woman with gout pain rubbing her foot near the big toe

Product Review

Glycine Supplements Review

Tests of Glycine Show High-Quality but Major Savings with Right Products.

Glycine Review 3

Product Review

Black Currant, Borage, Evening Primrose, Flax and Hemp Oil Review

Choose the Best Flaxseed and Other Oils Based on Our Tests.

Omega 3 and 6 Seed Oil Review 2025

Product Review

Joint Health Supplements for Pets Review (Glucosamine, Chondroitin, & MSM)

See Which Pet Supplements for Joint Health Passed Our Tests and Which Didn't!

Joint Supplements for Pets

Product Review

Potassium Supplements Review

Be Careful with Potassium Supplements! Problems Found. Tests and Reviews of Potassium Supplements & CL's Top Picks.

Potassium Supplements reviewed by ConsumerLab.com

CL Answer

What is the difference between fish oil and krill oil? Is one better than the other?

Learn which is better for you and compare krill oil vs. fish oil, including evidence from clinical studies, EPA and DHA content, price, and side effects.

CL Answer

Do plasmalogen supplements improve cognitive function and memory?

Plasmalogen supplements claim to improve cognitive function, support memory, and reduce brain fog. Find out if they work.

Hands holding puzzle in shape of head with puzzle pieces missing

Product Review

Magnesium Supplements Review (Including Calcium, Vitamins D & K, and Boron)

Find Out What Magnesium Does, Who Needs It, and Our Top Picks Among Supplements

Magnesium Review 2024

CL Answer

Does a USDA Organic seal guarantee that a supplement or natural product has been tested for toxic heavy metals such as lead, cadmium or arsenic?

Find out what the USDA Organic seal on dietary supplements means and whether certified organic supplements and natural products are tested for toxic heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, and arsenic.

USDA Organic seal

CL Answer

Which supplements are helpful for age-related macular degeneration (AMD)?

Find out which vitamins & supplements are helpful for macular degeneration (AMD), such as lutein, zeaxanthin, and others used in the AREDS studies.

Supplements for Macular Degeneration -- woman getting eye examination

CL Answer

Which supplements, foods or diet and lifestyle changes help relieve acid reflux (heartburn), and which worsen it?

Find out which supplements and foods can help relieve acid reflux, and which can make it worse.

Supplements Making Acid Reflux Worse -- Man with acid reflux pain

CL Answer

What' the Best Way to Take Vitamin B-12? Dosage and Absorption Tips

Discover the optimal dosage and ways to take vitamin B-12, an essential nutrient, for better absorption and effectiveness and learn about possible side effects.

Vitamin B12 Dosage, Benefits, Uses & Deficiency -- B12 Bottle and Tablets

CL Answer

How much calcium do you need each day, what forms are best, and how much is too much?

Learn about the recommended daily intake of calcium from food & supplements and why taking too much can be harmful. Also, learn about the forms of calcium that are available and which are best.

None

CL Answer

I've heard that soaking dried beans for 24 hours reduces the phytate level, allowing for greater access to nutrients. Is this true?

Does soaking dried beans in water help reduce phytate levels to help gain greater access to nutrients?

Soaking Beans to Remove Phytates -- white beans soaking in a bowl of water

CL Answer

What is hydrogen water? Is it beneficial for alertness, athletic performance, arthritis or other conditions, and is it safe?

Find out if hydrogen water has benefits with regard to alertness, side effects of radiotherapy in cancer patients, metabolic syndrome, athletic performance, rheumatoid arthritis, liver disease, and other conditions, and learn if it is safe to use.

Portable hydrogen water generator

Recalls & Warnings

February 19, 2019

Alaskan Smoked Silver Salmon in Jars and Cans Recalled Due to Risk of Botulism

On February 15, 2019, Smoked Alaska Seafoods, Inc. recalled all jars and cans of Smoked Silver Salmon because it has the potential to be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium which can cause life-threatening illness or death.

Recalls & Warnings

February 12, 2025

Trader Joe’s, Van Camp’s, H-E-B, and Genova Canned Tuna Recalled

On February 7, 2025, Tri-Union Seafoods recalled select canned tunas sold by Trader Joe’s, Van Camp’s, H-E-B, and Genova, due to a manufacturing defect that compromises the integrity of the “easy open” pull tab on the can.

Recalls & Warnings

January 25, 2021

Clover Leaf Sardines Recalled Due to Risk of Botulism

On January 22, 2021, Clover Leaf Seafoods Corp.

Recalls & Warnings

December 19, 2024

Jarritos Coconut Water Recalled

On November 4, 2024, Tipp Distributors, Inc. issued a recall all lot codes of Jarritos Coconut Water (17.5 fl oz cans) because the airtight seal on the lid of the cans may be compromised.

News Release

July 10, 2020

Best and Worst Tuna, Salmon and Sardines? ConsumerLab Tests Reveal Amounts of Omega-3s and Toxic Heavy Metals in Canned and Packaged Fish

White Plains, New York, July 10, 2020 — Canned and packaged tuna, salmon and sardines can be an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, but some may also be contaminated with toxic heavy metals such as mercury and arsenic.

Recalls & Warnings

June 24, 2024

Canned Coffee Recalled Due to Botulism Risk

On June 17, 2024, Snapchill LLC recalled its canned coffee products because they have the potential to grow the toxic bacterium Clostridium botulinum.

Recalls & Warnings

July 18, 2024

Great Value & Silk Plant-Based Milks Recalled in Canada, Linked With Deadly Listeria Outbreak

On July 8, 2024, Health Canada (the Canadian equivalent of the FDA) announced the recall of 18 varieties of Great Value and Silk brand oat, almond, coconut, and nut milks sold and distributed in Canada due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.

News Release

November 19, 2018

Tests Reveal Best Fish Oil Supplements and How They Compare to Prescription Fish Oil

White Plains, New York, November 19, 2018 — Fish and marine oil supplements containing the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA offer a range of potential benefits for improving mental health, reducing inflammation, and even cancer prevention.

News Release

October 02, 2018

Best Joint Health Supplements Identified -- ConsumerLab Tests Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM and Boswellia Supplements for People and Pets

White Plains, New York, October 2, 2018 — Do joint health supplements with ingredients such as glucosamine, chondroitin, Boswellia, and MSM really relieve joint pain or slow the progression of osteoarthritis? If so, which products are best? To find out, ConsumerLab recently tested popular ...

News Release

September 12, 2018

Little Omega-3 and High Mercury Found In Some Canned Tuna -- Better Choices Selected for Tuna and Salmon

White Plains, New York, September 12, 2018 — Some popular canned tuna contain much lower amounts of omega-3 fatty acids than recommended for cardiovascular benefits while being high in mercury and/or arsenic, according to tests by ConsumerLab.com.

News Release

November 03, 2016

Is Astaxanthin Helpful for Inflammation or Other Conditions -- and Which Brands Are Best? -- ConsumerLab.com Reviews the Evidence and Tests the Quality of Popular Astaxanthin Supplements

White Plains, New York, November 3, 2016 — Astaxanthin is the red carotenoid and antioxidant which, through the food chain, provides the pink coloration of shrimp, krill salmon and trout.

News Release

September 13, 2016

Best Fish Oil? ConsumerLab.com Tests 44 Popular Omega-3 Supplements and Identifies Its Top Picks

White Plains, New York, September 13, 2016 — Fish oil and omega-3 fatty acid supplements containing EPA and DHA are among the most popular supplements, and clinical studies suggest a wide range of potential benefits, from improving mental health to treating inflammatory disease.

News Release

November 25, 2013

Many Probiotic Supplements Fall Short on Listed Amounts of Helpful Organisms

White Plains, New York, November 25, 2013 — Probiotic supplements and foods containing "friendly" bacteria or yeast have become popular among people hoping to improve bowel function, immunity, and even mood.

News Release

September 28, 2010

ConsumerLab.com finds quality problems with nearly 30% of fish oil supplements reviewed; "Fishy" claims identified -- Softgels and liquids for adults, children and pets tested, including krill oil and algal oil supplements

White Plains, New York — September 28, 2010 — Tests of fish, algal and krill oil supplements revealed quality problems with 7 out of 24 products selected by independent testing organization ConsumerLab.com.

News Release

December 16, 2009

"Eye health" supplements vary widely in formula but product quality is high according to ConsumerLab.com

"Eye Health" Supplements Vary Widely in Formula But Product Quality is High According to ConsumerLab.com

News Release

August 05, 2008

ConsumerLab.com Find Fifty Fish Oil Supplements Pass Quality Testing -- New Report Helps Consumers Choose Among Pills, Liquids, Foods and Beverages with Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA and DHA)

WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — AUGUST 5, 2008 — ConsumerLab.com announced today that testing of fifty omega-3 fish oil supplements, foods or beverages (including two marketed for pets) found all to have safe levels of mercury, lead and PCBs.

News Release

November 15, 2005

Testing by ConsumerLab.com identifies many problems with popular supplements for weight loss, slimming, and blood sugar control

Westchester, NY — November 15, 2005 — In a series of reports released today, ConsumerLab.com revealed test results for supplements used for weight loss, slimming, and blood sugar control. Among the twenty-three products that ConsumerLab.

News Release

December 14, 2004

ConsumerLab.com finds Omega-3 fish oil supplements safer than fish but quality varies among brands — Test of 41 Supplements Finds No Mercury or PCB Contamination, But Some Spoiled or Lacking Claimed Oils

WHITE PLAINS, NY — Tuesday, December 14, 2004 — ConsumerLab.com announced today that tests of 41 omega-3 fish oil supplements (including 3 marketed for pets) showed safe levels of mercury and PCBs.

Recalls & Warnings

August 07, 2023

Aerosol Bed Bug & Flea Killer Recalled Due to Injury Risk

On August 3, 2023, Maggie’s Farm issued a recall of the company’s Aerosol Bed Bug & Flea Killer products because the aerosol can can rupture and expel shrapnel, posing an injury and laceration hazard to consumers.

Recalls & Warnings

September 04, 2020

Beware of Hand Sanitizers Packaged in Food and Drink Containers

On August 27, 2020, the FDA warned consumers about alcohol-based hand sanitizers that are packaged in containers that look like food and drink packages.

Recalls & Warnings

February 27, 2018

Dog Treats, Food Recalled Due to Salmonella, Listeria Risk

The following dog treats and dog food are being recalled because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes or Salmonella, which can cause illness in pets who consume these products, as well as in pet owners who handle the contaminated products or touch ...

Recalls & Warnings

February 05, 2019

Hill's Science Diet, Prescription Diet Dog Food Recalled Due to Risk of Vitamin D Toxicity

Recall Expanded (3/20/19): This recall was expanded to include additional products.

Recalls & Warnings

May 24, 2002

Recall Update for Portagen Iron Fortified Nutrition Powder

In its May 22, 2002 Enforcement Report, the U.S. FDA reported the completion of the following Class I Food Recall. A Class I recall is a situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of or exposure to a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.

Recalls & Warnings

May 17, 2002

Update on Recall of Certain Ultra Slim-Fast with Soy Protein Drinks

In its May 15, 2002 Enforcement Report, the U.S. FDA reported the following Class III Food Recall. A Class III recall is a situation in which use of or exposure to a violative product is not likely to cause adverse health consequences.

Recalls & Warnings

November 28, 2017

Seven Arrested for Selling Fake Olive Oil in Greece

On November 26, 2017, Greek police arrested and charged seven individuals for fraudulently selling large quantities of sunflower oil as olive oil, as reported in the National Post.

Recalls & Warnings

July 11, 2011

Use of "Sports Drinks" and "Energy Drinks" Discouraged by Pediatric Group

A report from the American Academy of Pediatrics outlines how sports and energy drinks are being misused and provides guidance to decrease or eliminate consumption by children and adolescents.

Recalls & Warnings

November 04, 2002

Recall Of Selected Store Brand Infant Formula in U.S.

On November 1, 2002, Wyeth Nutrition, in consultation with the U.S.

Recalls & Warnings

April 11, 2015

FDA Warns Maker of "Relaxation" Drink

On March 4, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to Bebida Beverage Company (BeBevCo) following a review of the company's website and product label, which found the "relaxation beverage"Koma Unwind Liquid Relaxation to be adulterated because it contains melatonin.

Recalls & Warnings

April 09, 2014

Maker of Relaxation Drink Warned For Melatonin Ingredient

On March 27, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to Dewmar International BMC, Inc. following a review of the company's product packaging and labels, which found the "relaxation beverage" Lean Slow Motion ...