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Mercury

Level 5High concernIn Winter's Dictionary2 sources

Mercury is a other — Toxic contaminant in fish/seafood

Also: Methylmercury

What it does

Toxic contaminant in fish/seafood

Where you'll see it

Fish, shellfish

What the research says

High levels can harm brain, heart, kidneys, lungs, immune system. High levels in unborn babies/young children may harm developing nervous system. [metabolical] Heavy metal that accumulates in large predator fish and is also generated as a by-product of HFCS manufacturing. Damages mitochondria, drives oxidative stress, and impairs neurological development.

Regulatory status

  • Notes: #3 on CERCLA Priority List

Sources

  • Metabolical (Lustig)Chapter 18: mercury is also a by-product of various technological 'advances,' including the processing of corn into high-fructose corn syrup
  • A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives (Winter): mercury exposure at high levels can harm the brain, heart, kidneys, lungs, and immune system