W. STEFFENS
German Anglers Association - Berlin, Germany
STEFFENS, W., 2006. Freshwater fish - wholesome foodstuffs. Bulg. J. Agric. Sci, 12: 320-328
Fish production by aquaculture is growing considerably and freshwater fish species are increasingly interesting for human nutrition. Freshwater fish are an excellent source of high quality animal protein. The protein content of flesh comes to 15 - 20% of wet weight and the protein is characterized by a balanced amino acid composition. The lipid content of freshwater fish varies dependent on species, size and nutrition. The lipid contains substantial concentrations of essential fatty acids of the n-3 and n-6 series. Since the polyunsaturated n-3 fatty acids have antiatherosclerotic efficacy freshwater fish can be used for preventing cardiovascular diseases. The flesh of freshwater fish species is also a source for meeting the mineral requirement of humans. Freshwater fish contain higher portions of potassium and phosphorus as well as of the trace mineral iron. Last not least freshwater fish comprise several vitamins. Therefore, freshwater fish can be recommended as wholesome foodstuffs.