Frequency of consumption of different fish, crustacean and mollusc species contributing to methylmercury exposure and consumer awareness of national advice on their consumption

Abstract Following a request of the European Commission, EFSA assessed fish and other seafood consumption patterns and consumer awareness of related health risks and benefits across the 27 Member States, Iceland and Norway. Awareness of existence of consumption national advice and to which extent this advice influence consumers consumption behaviour were also examined. To address these objectives, two surveys were conducted in 2023 and 2024 among adolescents, adults and pregnant women. Data were collected through computer‐assisted telephone interviews by means of a combined Food Propensity and Awareness Questionnaire. The surveys covered 38 fish species grouped by their maximum levels of mercury (1.0, 0.5 and 0.3 mg/kg). Respondents were asked about consumption frequency, awareness of contaminants and knowledge of national dietary advice. The analysis showed that fish and other seafood consumption increased between the two surveys across all countries and species categories, regardless of whether updated advice was issued. Awareness of chemical contaminants was generally low, with mercury being the most recognised contaminant. Awareness of national advice was moderate and slightly higher among pregnant women but reported changes in consumption behaviour linked to this advice were limited. Information sources also played a role in shaping consumer behaviour and these varied per country and population group. Uncertainties were identified and recommendations listed to improve future assessments.