Methylmercury
methylmercury, organic mercury, metilmercurio
What it is
A highly toxic organic form of mercury that bioaccumulates in aquatic food chains.
Why BOTIA flags it
Methylmercury is especially toxic to the developing nervous system. In pregnancy, the concern is fetal exposure: unborn children are the most vulnerable group. EFSA found women of child-bearing age were no more exposed than adults generally. It gives no basis for saying women eliminate it more slowly.
BOTIA CAN
- Detect fish ingredients known to be major sources of methylmercury exposure.
- Provide safety advice for pregnant and childbearing-age women.
BOTIA CANNOT
- Quantify the actual concentration in the scanned product.
- Determine if the fish was wild-caught or farmed.