BFAR: Bangus safe to eat

MANILA, Philippines — Bangus or milkfish si still safe for human consumption, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) said on Friday after some samples of the fish yielded microplastics in Mindanao.

In its statement, BFAR said that there is “no concrete evidence yet” of the negative effects that can occur from ingesting microplastic found in bangus.

“As there is no concrete evidence of negative effects of  microplastic ingestion at the  current level of  contamination present in our environment, consuming bangus is safe provided that they are fresh and properly processed or cooked,” the BFAR pointed out. “In the Philippines, there are no health advisories raised with regards to bangus consumption that tested positive in microplastics,” it added.“The DA-BFAR will continue to collaborate with the DOST with regards to studies related to microplastics. The DA-BFAR also supports the call to have a consensus within the scientific community about the acceptable tolerance level of microplastic contaminationto identify the potential risks on humans.”

The BFAR made the statement following a study from the Department of Science and Technology that discovered microplastics in bangus samples from Mindanao.

The public was also urged to recycle or to properly dispose of plastics to reduce pollution in bodies of water.

“The DA-BFAR will continue to remain vigilant in ensuring that all fish commodities sold in the markets are safe and free from any harmful substances, which will only be achievable through consistent observance of sustainable aquatic resource management,” it concluded.