Escolar Tuna

Escolar Tuna in the United States

Escolar tuna, also known as white tuna or butterfish, is a deep-sea fish that has gained popularity in restaurants in the United States due to its mild flavor and buttery texture. However, it is important to note that escolar tuna contains high levels of a waxy ester called gempylotoxin, which can cause gastrointestinal distress in some individuals.

FDA Regulations

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved escolar tuna for human consumption in the United States. However, it is still legally sold in some restaurants under the name "escolar" or "white tuna." The FDA advises consumers to avoid eating escolar tuna due to the potential health risks associated with gempylotoxin.

Health Risks

Gempylotoxin is a natural toxin found in escolar tuna that can cause a range of gastrointestinal symptoms, including:

These symptoms typically occur within 30 minutes to 3 hours after consuming escolar tuna and can last for several days. In severe cases, gempylotoxin can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

Restaurants Serving Escolar Tuna

Despite the FDA's warning, some restaurants in the United States continue to serve escolar tuna. It is important for consumers to be aware of the potential health risks associated with this fish and to make informed decisions about whether or not to consume it.

Some restaurants that have been known to serve escolar tuna include:

Alternatives to Escolar Tuna

If you are looking for a healthy and sustainable alternative to escolar tuna, consider the following options:

These fish are all low in gempylotoxin and provide a good source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and other essential nutrients.

Conclusion

Escolar tuna is a fish that contains high levels of gempylotoxin, which can cause gastrointestinal distress in some individuals. The FDA advises consumers to avoid eating escolar tuna due to the potential health risks. If you are looking for a healthy and sustainable alternative to escolar tuna, consider other types of fish such as albacore tuna, yellowfin tuna, or salmon.