Fish products refer to a wide range of processed foods and drinks made from seafood or other marine organisms. They provide essential protein, vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber as well as being an excellent choice for a low-fat, high-nutritional diet that’s readily available around the world.
Flesh of Fish (35-69%)
The flesh of fish is the most valuable component, as it contains high concentrations of proteins, fats and minerals. Not only that but it’s a great source of vitamin B12 and choline which support healthy nerve function; plus it supplies essential amino acids like lysine and methionine which support muscle growth.
Minced Fish (23-27%)
Minced Fish is an important product made from whole fish that has been cut into strips and cooked in boiling water for around 20 minutes until tender. Once cool, this mixture can then be formed into oval or round shapes by rolling in bread powder before being deep-fried.
Fish not only provides protein, but it’s an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids – essential for good health. Studies have discovered that polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) reduce inflammation and lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Furthermore, PUFAs support skin, eyes and nervous system development.
Prepared Fish (20-30%)
The processed fish used to manufacture the products listed above can be selected from any type of fish including shrimp, squid, mussels and oysters. They are either boiled or steam-cooked before freezing for further processing.
Accelerated Freeze Drying (1-2%)
Fish is often processed through a process known as freeze drying to preserve it. This technique prevents loss of nutrients and extends shelf life. Plus, this is an economical method for food preservation since operating costs are minimal.
Ready-to-Eat/Ready-to-Cook Convenience Products – (1-2%)
Demand for value added convenience products made with fish is increasing due to global affluence and changing eating habits worldwide. As a result, more fast-food restaurants are offering these value-added fish items.
Some of these value added products include tatami iwashi, which is a Japanese fried fish paste; and stuffed squid. Stuffed squid are prepared by cleaning small squid and stuffing them with cooked tentacles, potato, onions, spices etc.
This fish product is an excellent source of protein and suitable for vegetarians. Additionally, it provides calcium, iron and potassium.
Fish meal is also an excellent source of phospholipids and vitamin D. Vitamin D plays a significant role in the absorption of calcium from other foods, helping to keep bones strong and healthy.
Fish meal is an incredibly versatile product that can be used in the preparation of many items, from biscuits and meats, to drinks. It also makes an ideal protein and animal feed supplement for poultry and cattle as it contains essential amino acids lysine, methionine and cysteine as well as several B-vitamins like cyanocobalamin (B12), riboflavin, pantothenic acid and niacin. Furthermore, fish meal contains antioxidants, phosphatidylcholine as well as polyunsaturated fatty acids crucial for skin development and other organs.
