Development of a nationwide fish and shellfish consumption survey: Model design and pilot test results

Although studies have demonstrated that fish and shellfish consumption rates differ both regionally and within specific subpopulations, there is a lack of sufficient recent data to calculate local consumption rates or to identify special populations at risk as the result of eating fish and shellfish containing chemical contaminants, human pathogens, and biotoxins. Risk assessors and risk managers need this information to determine both acute and chronic risks and to develop appropriate fish and shellfish consumption advisories and bans. A comprehensive evaluation of previous consumption surveys provided a basis for designing new models to collect scientifically valid data on human consumption of fish and shellfish for use in risk assessments. The types of information needed were identified with the assistance of representatives from federal and state agencies,, academia, and the seafood industry. The survey instruments were prepared and tested to collect demographic data and to examine daily consumption of the types and amounts of all fish and shellfish eaten by all members of a household and the method of preparation of these items by using a diary (first survey) and to examine a site-specific, subpopulation-specific, and species-specific fish consumption issue by using the recall method (second survey). An illustrated portion guide was included with both survey instruments to provide consistency in collecting quantitative data on the amounts eaten. The application of these new models will provide the data necessary to determine the risk to the consumer; to establish realistic guidelines, tolerances, action levels, and advisories for contaminants in fish and shellfish; and to set criteria for safe seafood products.