Endangered Shark Meat Found in U.S. Grocery Stores, Study Says

Key Takeaways

31% of sampled shark products came from endangered or critically endangered species

93% of products were labeled only as 'shark' and one was mislabeled entirely

Some species found carry high mercury and arsenic levels, which can pose serious health risks

THURSDAY, Sept. 11, 2025 (HealthDay News) — Shark meat sold in the U.S. may come from endangered species without consumers realizing it, a new study warns.

Researchers tested 29 shark products, including 19 fillets bought in grocery stores and seafood markets across North Carolina, Florida, Georgia and Washington, D.C., plus 10 jerky products purchased online.

Using DNA barcoding, they identified the species and compared them with the product labels.

"We found critically endangered sharks, including great hammerhead an