Mollusk and crustacean consumption in the first 1,000 days: a scoping review

Abstract

Mollusk and crustacean consumption in the first 1,000 days may improve maternal and child health by providing essential nutrients. However, in some contexts, mollusks and crustaceans have been associated with allergies and environmental contamination, potentially leading to adverse health and development outcomes. It is unclear whether the health benefits of consuming mollusks and crustaceans, collectively classified as shellfish in nutrition, are outweighed by the potential risks to pregnant women and children. We conducted a scoping review (PROSPERO: CRD42022320454) in PubMed, Scopus, and EBSCO Global Health of articles published between January 2000 and March 2022 that assessed shellfish consumption during pregnancy, lactation, or childhood (0-2 years) in relation to maternal health, child health, or child development. A total of 46 articles were included in this review. Overall, shellfish consumption was associated with higher biomarkers of environmental contaminants, with mercury being the most studied and having the strongest evidence base. The limited research on nutritional biomarker status shows an association between shellfish consumption and iodine status. Preterm birth was not associated with shellfish consumption, but newborn anthropometry showed mixed results, with several studies reporting lower birthweight with higher shellfish consumption. The few studies that examined child development and maternal health outcomes reported no significant associations. This review revealed trade-off health risks and benefits with inclusion of mollusks and crustaceans in the dietary patterns of mothers and young children. More research is needed to understand how these aquatic animal-source foods may be safely consumed and leveraged for improving human nutrition.