Pregnancy food guidance
King mackerel
Avoid
Avoid king mackerel during pregnancy because FDA places it in the highest-mercury Choices to Avoid category.
What changes the answer for King mackerel
- Do not confuse king mackerel with lower-mercury Atlantic or Pacific chub mackerel.
- Cooking does not remove mercury.
Why it matters for King mackerel
King mackerel tends to contain high mercury levels.
Practical takeaway
Choose Atlantic mackerel, salmon or another FDA Best Choice instead.
Sources and review details
- Review status
- Source reviewed
- Last reviewed
- Guidance region
- United States