Chemists raise alarm about fish

Fish sold in Switzerland isn't as healthy as it should be Keystone Archive

Swiss chemists say they are alarmed at findings that one in every six fish bred in Switzerland has significant levels of medication or banned substances.

The Association of Swiss Cantonal Chemists conducted a study of fish bred in Switzerland, but did not find comparatively high levels of the substances in fish cultivated abroad.

The majority of the 204 sample fish that did not comply with acceptable levels of medication were trout, the association said. However, the results from tests conducted on fish bred abroad found levels compliant with regulations at 17 per cent.

The Chemists’ Association took immediate measures, notably the confiscation of batches where high levels of contamination in fish were found.

Investigations into the affair are underway, however, the cantons have so far not coordinated their efforts.

Medication is occasionally used in fish breeding, especially with trout, salmon and other species to combat some illnesses.

swissinfo with agencies