As we flip the calendar to another year, the Heartland Catfish team continues educating consumers about the benefits of Heartland U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish. So, we’re kicking off the year by answering a frequently asked question, “Is there iodine in U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish?”
The simple answer is no, U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish contain little to no amounts of iodine. Let’s look deeper into what iodine is, its effects on health and why it is not found in U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish.
What is iodine and the impacts of ingesting iodine (if any)?
Iodine is a mineral that plays a crucial role in thyroid hormone production, which regulates metabolism and helps maintain healthy energy levels. The human body cannot produce this mineral so it must be consumed. Iodine is found naturally in some foods, most commonly seafood and is considered a rich source of iodine, but many people don’t realize that iodine is not found in all seafood and U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish is a great example.
There are both benefits and side effects from iodine ingestion. You likely get enough iodine from foods such as fish, eggs and dairy products, as well as iodized salt. Some benefits of iodine include improved brain health in children and healthy skin. Getting enough iodine is key for thyroid function, but getting too much can lead to health issues. Some side effects of ingesting too much iodine include hyperthyroidism, goiter and extreme cases leading to iodine toxicity or thyroid cancer.
Why is there no iodine in catfish, but in other seafood?
Generally, the body of water a fish lives in impacts how much iodine the fish contains as the iodine from the water accumulates in the tissue of the fish. For example, cod, halibut, sea bass and tuna contain higher levels of iodine, having lived in iodine-rich saltwater and wild-caught from these waters. Conversely, U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish are raised in freshwater ponds where no iodine is added to the water or feed of the catfish.
By understanding where dietary iodine is naturally found, consumers can make informed choices that support their thyroid health and overall well-being. U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish is always healthier and safer than imported catfish products because it is farmed under strict regulations.
To learn more about U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish visit The Catfish Institute’s FAQ page.
