Consumers shouldn't be scared away from a diet rich in seafood, despite the scary headlines generated by a recent U.S. Geological Survey report about traces of mercury that have always been present in fish (Aug. 19). The Environmental Protection Agency standard used by the USGS is called a "water quality criterion." It was intended for use by scientists who evaluate the quality of water — not the healthfulness of eating fish that swim in it. But according to a more applicable standard from the Food and Drug Administration, every single fish identified in the new USGS report is safe to eat.
We need omega-3 fatty acids and other super-nutrients in our diets. And unless your income is above average, fish are the only reasonable place to get them.
David Martosko
director of research
Center for Consumer Freedom
Washington, D.C.