Some chemicals build up in your body over time or affect organs, such as your kidneys or liver. Women of childbearing age may be at special risk from eating contaminated fish. Children under the age of 15 should not eat contaminated fish because they are still growing and developing, and are at special risk from contaminants. The following guidelines are a shortened version of the complete health advisory for the Upper Niagara River and the Buffalo area. You can reduce your exposure to chemical contaminants by the way you prepare the fish.
Many chemicals concentrate in the fatty parts of the fish.
By cleaning or cooking fish to reduce fat, you can also reduce the amount of contaminants you eat. Don't pan or deep fry. Broil, bake, poach or boil your fish so the fatty juices drip away. Don't consume cooking liquids. Chemicals In Sportfish and Game published annually by the New York State Department of Health.