The use of shark fin as a delicacy was once a hot ecological issue with local environmentalists forcing Disneyland to drop the popular soup from its menus. Now, shark fin may also present a health hazard, based on a survey that showed eight of 10 samples sold in Hong Kong contain mercury levels above the legal standard.
The highest mercury content was more than four times the permitted limit, according to laboratory tests done by green groups.
Environmentalists said eating shark fin is tantamount to self-poisoning. Babies could be born prematurely, become autistic or have low IQs if women consume the delicacy during pregnancy.
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