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Half of adults in the UK eat less than the recommended two portions of seafood a week, according to new research released today (Friday 1 August). The findings also reveal that GPs and health centres could do more to ensure that the public better understands the Food Standards Agency’s advice regarding seafood.
Seafish news 01/08/2008
The survey, commissioned by Seafish, the Sea Fish Industry Authority, shows that a staggering 81% of adults revealed they would try to eat two portions of seafood a week if their doctor recommended it. Alarmingly 90% said their GP had never advised eating seafood to improve heart-health or omega-3 levels.
Independent nutritionist, Juliette Kellow said, “Fish and shellfish are some of the healthiest foods available. They are an excellent source of protein and provide a variety of different vitamins and minerals. Oil-rich seafood is also the best natural source of long-chain omega 3 fatty acids, which are proven to help maintain heart health. That’s why the Food Standards Agency recommends eating at least two portions a week, one of which should be oil-rich.”
The research was conducted as part of a healthy eating campaign from Seafish to highlight the benefits of fish and shellfish and encourage people to eat more sustainably sourced seafood every week. As part of this campaign, leaflets and posters are being sent to health centres around the UK providing information on why people should eat two portions of seafood a week.
Dr Jon Harman, development director at Seafish, said: “Seafood is an important part of a healthy balanced diet and it’s concerning that health practitioners are not recommending it more often to patients to improve their general health, as well as to reduce the risk of serious long-term illnesses caused by a lack of long-chain omega 3 fatty acids.”
“Seafood Fortnight takes place next month and its ‘2 a week’ theme will further help to raise awareness of the government’s recommendation. Seafish encourages businesses all around the country to get involved, reminding consumers that eating two portions of sustainably sourced seafood a week can be of great benefit to their health.”
For more information or for tempting new ideas on how to get your ‘2 a week’ log on to www.seafish.org/2aweek.
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