Is fish from Kerala’s coast safe to eat now? Experts say yes

Kochi: Two ship accidents off the Kerala coast have triggered concern among seafood consumers and the fishing community. At the heart of the anxiety is a pressing question: Is sea fish still safe to eat? The first incident had already caused a noticeable drop in fish sales, and the second only deepened public doubts.

In this context, Dr George Ninan, Director of the Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (CIFT), spoke to Manorama to clarify the current situation.

“There are rumours that hazardous substances, including oil, may have entered the fish due to the accidents, and therefore people should avoid consuming seafood. This is not true,” he said.

“An examination of fish and water samples from the southern coastal districts of Kerala has confirmed that there are no safety concerns for the time being. Samples from the northern districts are currently under testing.”

After the first accident, a preliminary study examined more than 30 fish samples. All were found safe for consumption.

“There is no reason to panic. No traces of plastic or oil were found in any of the fish we tested. If the contamination had been severe, we would have seen fish kills. But no such cases have been reported in any coastal district,” he said.

How to identify contaminated fish
According to Dr Ninan, fish exposed to oil contamination often carry visible traces near the gills or on their body, and a strong smell is a key indicator.

“If the fish smells like petrol, diesel or kerosene instead of the usual fresh scent, it may have come from a polluted area. Also watch out for injuries or signs of decay on the fins, or a noticeable change in the fish’s natural colour. However, we have not come across any such cases so far. So, fish remains safe to consume,” he reassured.

At the same time, Dr Ninan acknowledged the potential long-term risks of oil or plastic entering the marine food chain. “These incidents can have far-reaching ecological consequences and we need detailed long-term studies on that front,” he added.

Preliminary study confirms fish are safe
A preliminary CIFT study conducted after the MSC Elsa-3 accident near Alappuzha also confirmed the safety of local seafood. Fish and water samples collected from Ernakulam, Alappuzha, Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram showed no abnormalities in taste or structure.

The pH levels of seawater remained within normal limits, and no traces of oil were detected. The study report has been submitted to the state government.

Dr Ninan emphasized the need for ongoing monitoring and continued sampling to ensure long-term safety.

Joint study on impact
To understand the broader impact of the accidents, the Fisheries Department has ordered a joint study. CIFT, CMFRI, and KUFOS will collaborate to develop a research protocol and assess the ecological and environmental consequences along Kerala’s coast.