Tuna: Is It Considered a Clean Fish According to Biblical Rules?

According to the biblical rule, tuna is classified as a clean fish because it has both fins and scales. Its scales are very small and not always noticeable to the buyer, but they are a genuine biological characteristic of this fish species.

The Biblical Rule for Aquatic Creatures

God gave the Israelites a simple and clear criterion regarding aquatic animals suitable for food: they must have both fins and scales simultaneously. This rule applies to creatures living in seas and fresh waters, regardless of their size, taste, or method of preparation.

“These you may eat of all that are in the water: whatever in the water has fins and scales, whether in the seas or in the rivers—that you may eat.” Lev 11:9

Conversely, aquatic creatures lacking either of these two features were not permitted as food. In other words, fins alone are not enough; nor are scales alone. The biblical standard requires both traits.

“And all that have not fins and scales in the seas, and in the rivers, of all that move in the waters, and of any living thing which is in the waters, they shall be an abomination unto you.” Lev 11:10

This same instruction is reiterated in Deuteronomy, underscoring its significance in biblical dietary teaching.

“These you may eat of all that are in the waters: you may eat all that have fins and scales.” Deut 14:9

Does Tuna Have Scales?

This is where most questions arise. On the market counter, especially after cleaning and processing, tuna can appear smooth, almost scaleless. Because of this, it is sometimes mistakenly lumped together with catfish, eel, shark, or shellfish, which do not meet the biblical criterion.

However, tuna is a bony fish belonging to the family Scombridae (mackerel family). It possesses both fins and true scales. In many tuna species, the scales are small, thin, and adhere closely to the skin. They are most prominent on the anterior portion of the body and along the lateral line, forming a sort of protective "corslet." Across the rest of the body, the scales can be minute, making them difficult to see without close inspection.

Therefore, the absence of conspicuous scales on a fillet or in a canned product does not mean that the fish lacked them naturally. The biblical question is not whether the scales remain after commercial processing, but whether they are a natural characteristic of the living fish. Tuna fully satisfies this requirement.

Fish Purity and the Adventist Health Perspective

Seventh-day Adventists recognize the biblical distinction between clean and unclean animals as a gracious principle of God’s care for humanity. Although salvation is not earned through a menu, but solely by God’s grace through faith in Jesus Christ, our dietary choices can serve as an expression of obedience, gratitude, and responsible stewardship of the body.

The Apostle Paul urges believers to view even ordinary daily decisions in a broader spiritual light.

“Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” 1 Cor 10:31

Ellen White repeatedly emphasized that health reform is not a means to earn God’s favor. Its purpose is to help people preserve mental clarity, physical strength, and the vitality needed to serve God and our neighbors. In this spirit, choosing clean fish can be permissible, although the Adventist Church also encourages a wholesome plant-based diet as a health-promoting and compassionate choice for many.

Moderation and Safe Choices

The biblical cleanness of tuna does not mean it should be eaten frequently or without regard for modern health concerns. Large predatory fish tend to accumulate higher levels of mercury than smaller species. For this reason, pregnant women, nursing mothers, young children, and individuals with specific medical concerns should be particularly mindful of the frequency of tuna consumption and heed medical guidance.

It is also beneficial to check the ingredients on canned tuna. While tuna itself is a clean fish, the product may sometimes contain excessive salt, oils, sauces, or other additives. A healthier choice is typically an option with simple ingredients, moderate sodium, and minimal additives. A truly healthy diet is not built around a single food, but incorporates a colorful variety of vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and seeds.

Conclusion and Practical Application

Tuna is considered a clean fish under biblical guidelines because it possesses both fins and scales. Its smooth appearance does not negate this natural feature. At the same time, Christian freedom and responsibility encourage us not merely to ask, “Is this permissible?”, but also to wisely evaluate whether our choices promote health and bring honor to God.

Practically speaking: if you choose to consume tuna, do so in moderation, check the product ingredients, balance it with other wholesome sources of protein, and thank God for the food that sustains your strength to serve Him.