Information for Message Content: Benefits and Risks of Fish Consumption

Target Audiences’ Reactions to Fish Advisory Statements

The messages describing characteristics of fish that were not the same as other foods were viewed as persuasive. Statements about protein and omega-3 fatty acids in fish, in particular, were found to be more persuasive than general statements about vitamins and minerals. For example, statements about particular health benefits that could be attributed to omega-3 fatty acids were considered most influential, providing the most concrete information about why they should continue to eat fish. People also preferred statements that had particular relevance to them and their life circumstances. Women who were pregnant or had young children preferred statements that referred to the benefits of fish consumption for children. Those who did not expect to have any more children preferred statements that referred to the benefits to the women themselves. 

For more information, refer to Fish Consumption Advisory Interpretation by Key Audiences in the Great Lakes Region.

Example: Angler Study

Anglers reported that the following types of statements were most likely to encourage them to follow fish consumption advisories and/or were likely to encourage fish consumption:

• Fish are an important part of a healthy diet.
• Health experts recommend that fish be included as part of a balanced diet.
• Eating fish is good for you and your baby! Fish Consumption Advisory Interpretation by Key Audiences in the Great Lakes Region.
• Fish are high in protein.
• Including fish in your diet is the primary way to get healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
• Omega-3 fats may be beneficial during fetal brain and eye development. Eating fish containing omega-3 fats may lower the risk of heart disease in adults. For more information, refer to Fish Consumption Advisory Interpretation by Key Audiences in the Great Lakes Region.

• Healthy, fun recreational activity
• Provide and support a subsistence lifestyle
• Economic importance
• Cultural, spiritual or traditional relevance

Study on Response to Benefit/Risk Information

In this study, anglers responded to benefit-risk information differently depending on to whom the risks and benefits accrue. More study respondents would take action to reduce fish consumption if the risks accrued to developing or unborn children versus adults. The results from the study appear consistent with results from previous studies, indicating future generations are regarded as meriting more protective approaches than current generations. Distribution of risks and benefits is therefore important for understanding the basis for risk perception and developing corresponding risk communication programs. For more information, refer to Weighing Health Benefit and Health Risk Information when Consuming Sport‐Caught Fish.

Sample Language: Risks of Consuming Fish

Fish are good for you and good to eat. But some fish may take in contaminants from the water they live in and the food they eat. Some of these contaminants build up in the fish and you over time. These contaminants could harm the people who eat them, so it is important to keep your exposure to these contaminants as low as possible. This advisory helps you plan what fish to keep as well as how often and how much sport fish to eat. This advisory is not intended to discourage you from eating fish but should be used as a guide to eating fish low in contaminants. For more information, refer to Protocol for a Uniform Great Lakes Sport Fish Consumption Advisory, Protocol for a Uniform Great Lakes Sport Fish Consumption Advisory.