Operation to Catch Sailfin Catfish in Jakarta: Is It Safe to Consume?

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government is conducting an operation to capture sailfin catfish in several rivers and large drains in the capital. DKI Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung stated that the sailfin catfish, which reproduces invasively, can disrupt the ecosystem. So, after the sailfin catfish are caught, is it safe to consume them? Lately, sailfin catfish have been eyed as an alternative cheap protein source, but there are food safety potentials behind its consumption. Sailfin catfish does contain protein, however, several scientific studies on fish living in polluted rivers show that their flesh can contain heavy metals such as arsenic (As), mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), and cadmium (Cd) exceeding the safe food limits set by regulators. This occurs because freshwater bottom-feeder fish like sailfin catfish can accumulate heavy metals from sediment and water if the water is exposed to contaminants from industrial waste, agriculture, or settlements. Is it safe to consume sailfin catfish? Sailfin catfish may contain protein and can be eaten under certain conditions, but its nutritional value is limited and the risks are higher, especially if sourced from polluted waters. If the goal of consuming fish is for long-term health, sea fish like mackerel are clearly a superior and recommended choice.