Can You Eat Tinned Tuna When Pregnant?
Reviewed against NHS foods-to-avoid guidance · Updated September 2026
Nutritional data sourced from USDA FoodData Central and Public Health England. Always consult a registered dietitian for personal dietary advice.
Tinned tuna is safe during pregnancy up to 4 medium cans a week (NHS limit, due to mercury).
Why is tinned tuna a concern in pregnancy?
The NHS advises no more than 4 medium-sized cans of tuna (about 140g drained weight each) per week during pregnancy, because tuna contains more mercury than most fish. Within that limit, tinned tuna is a convenient, healthy protein source. It doesn't count towards the oily fish limit because canning removes most of the beneficial oils.
You can also check the calorie content of tinned tuna alongside its safety information. Also check medication safety during pregnancy if you're managing any conditions.
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Pregnancy essentials
Pregnancy multivitamin
The NHS advises 400µg of folic acid daily — easiest as one daily tablet.
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More pregnancy essentials
Baby-safe food thermometer
Useful for pregnancy cooking checks and later for baby food.
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Common questions
Can I eat tinned tuna in the first trimester?
Yes — the 4-can weekly limit applies throughout pregnancy.
Is a small amount of tinned tuna OK during pregnancy?
Yes — a tuna sandwich or tuna pasta within the weekly limit is completely fine.
I accidentally ate tinned tuna while pregnant — what should I do?
One week over the limit is nothing to worry about — mercury concerns relate to sustained intake. Just get back within the limit.
Is cooked tinned tuna safe in pregnancy?
The limit is the same whether the tuna is eaten cold from the can or cooked into a dish.
Related answers
Primary source: NHS foods-to-avoid guidance.
The information on 247foodcheck.com is compiled from official public guidance (NHS, Food Standards Agency, USDA/FDA FoodKeeper) and is provided for general information only. It is not medical advice and does not replace guidance from your midwife, GP, health visitor or other qualified professional. When in doubt, throw it out — and if you feel unwell after eating something, contact NHS 111 or your doctor.