Why eating washed-up dolphins could be a health disaster, expert explains

After Gazans seen feasting on beached dolphin, Dr. Ziv Tsemach-Shamir warns apex predators like dolphins often contain high levels of toxins and usually wash ashore when sick or dying, posing significant health risks to those who consume their flesh

Two Gaza residents were filmed holding a dolphin and a shark, which later allegedly became part of their meal.
But this unusual dietary choice packs a host of health risks. “A dolphin that washes ashore is usually sick and dying, if not already dead, and consuming the flesh of a sick animal is unsafe under any circumstances," explained Dr. Ziv Tsemach-Shamir of the Morris Kahn Marine Research Station at the University of Haifa.
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הכריש והדולפין שאכלו תושבים ברצועת עזה
הכריש והדולפין שאכלו תושבים ברצועת עזה
Gaza residents with the dolphin and the shark that washed ashore
(Photo: Social media)
"Additionally, both dolphins and sharks are apex predators with long lifespans, meaning they accumulate significant amounts of toxins, including heavy metals, in their bodies. For this reason, eating their flesh is highly inadvisable," he added.
He noted that the dolphin in Gaza likely drifted ashore as local fishermen are prohibited from venturing into deeper waters due to the war. “Striped dolphins are particularly sensitive animals that avoid coastal areas unless they're ill or dying,” he said. “While I don’t know the exact condition of this dolphin, it could have suffered from a variety of diseases.”
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Dr. Tsemach-Shamir also highlighted the lack of enforcement regarding protected species in Gaza, where residents have historically consumed marine animals, including those under protection. “In Gaza, they eat anything they catch,” he said.
“A dead animal washed ashore doesn’t pose an ecological threat to the sea, but when people actively hunt sharks, dolphins, sea turtles and similar species, it causes significant harm to marine ecosystems.”
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