The Vegetarian and Vegan Foundation says that pollutants such as dioxins and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) can accumulate in the fatty parts of fish which are then used to manufacture fish oil supplements.
A report, Fishing for Facts, published by the Foundation in 2003, says the adverse effects of PCBs and dioxins 'may include cancers, damage to the immune system, infertility and birth defects'.
Dr Justine Butler, molecular biologist and health campaigner for the Foundation, said, 'Most of the world's oceans are polluted and we think it is dangerous to promote the consumption of fish and fish oil supplements.
'Plant oil supplements, such as flaxseed oil, are a good alternative source of omega-3 fatty acids. We would recommend that parents refrain from giving their children fish and move towards a plant-based diet.'
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