O-mama - Opinionated Moms

The Daily Beast reports that seafood from the Gulf of Mexico is safe to eat. After conducting an independent research study, findings show that seafood from the Gulf was similar to samples taken from the Atlantic. A cross section of Gulf seafood, including red grouper, jumbo shrimp, and crabmeat, were tested for oil and chemical dispersants, and the findings were immaculate. Levels of petroleum hydrocarbons and/or dispersants were well below everyday federal thresholds, and were comparable to seafood from the Atlantic. While these tests support the findings of the Food and Drug Administration and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 52,000 square miles of Gulf federal waters remain closed to commercial and recreational fishing.

However, an independent poll conducted by the Associated Press finds that 54% of Americans are still not confident that Gulf seafood is safe to eat. This will have drastic economic effects on the massive seafood industry in the region.  Prior to the April spill, Louisiana alone supported a $1.3 billion shrimp industry, which employed approximately 14,000 people.

MOMism: “Don’t let fear over-ride reason.”  Fear is a very powerful motivator.  Sometimes this serves us well; like that fight or flight instinct that protects us from danger.  However, sometimes fear simply clouds our judgment.  It goes against reason, and truth. It’s important to teach our kiddos the difference between a healthy dose of caution and unsubstantiated fear.

After watching the 24 hour news cycle coverage of the disaster in the Gulf, it is not surprising that the American public is fearful, and not ready to blindly trust officials who tell us that everything is ok.  Especially, with what we put into our bodies, and that of our children.  However, at some point, we need to make a reasoned judgment, backed up with proof, about what may be an unsubstantiated fear of Gulf seafood. And, if the seafood is comparable to seafood found in other waters, we should support the Gulf fishermen.  Their livelihood depends on it...maybe this is an example when "we have nothing to fear, but fear itself?"  What are your opinions MAMAS???