Mercury in Shark Fins

Mercury in shark fins from nine of the most traded shark species in markets in China and Hong Kong contained dangerously high levels of methyl mercury. A team of scientists from the U.S. and Hong Kong measured mercury levels in 267 shark fins sold in Asian markets, testing each one for levels of methyl-mercury. Methyl-mercury is toxic to the central and peripheral nervous systems; it damages the brain, heart, kidneys, lungs, and immune system, and causes severe birth defects. The concentrations in each shark fin sampled in the study exceeded the maximum legal limit in Hong Kong of 0.5 parts per million with one hammerhead fin testing 55.52 parts per million. Exceeding these limits is illegal; the Hong Kong Food Adulteration Legislation states anyone who sells a food product with levels above the legal limit can face fines and criminal charges.