Mackerel: Local Fish with High Omega-3 (More than Salmon)

Have you heard that salmon is rich in omega-3?

Omega-3 is a type of essential fatty acid that the body cannot produce. Salmon is very popular with high omega-3 content, enough to help in reaching daily omega-3 needs. Therefore, we need to get it from our diet.

However, did you know that there are local fish that not only contain omega-3 but also have even higher levels than salmon? One such fish is mackerel, also known as the king of omega-3!

Are you curious about the advantages and benefits of eating mackerel? Let us explain them to you.

1. Getting to Know Mackerel Fish

Mackerel (Rastrelliger spp.) is a type of marine fish that is commonly found in the seas of Indonesia. It belongs to the Scombridae family and is a group of small pelagic fish that many people enjoy. Mackerel fish have a slender, elongated body with a greenish-blue back and a silvery white belly.

There are two popular species of mackerel in Indonesia, known as Rastrelliger kanagurta and Rastrelliger brachysoma, commonly referred to as male bloating and female bloating. In West Sumatra, mackerel is known as gembolo fish, while in Makassar, it is known as banyar fish, and later on, it’s known as Banjar mackerel.

Mackerel also plays a role in the marine food chain by serving as a source of protein for many predators, including seabirds and large fish.

2. The Advantages of Mackerel

Let’s explore the nutritional content of mackerel!

According to the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP), 100 grams of mackerel contains 2.6 grams of omega-3. In comparison, 100 grams of salmon only contains 1.4 grams of omega-3. This data shows that mackerel has a higher omega-3 content than salmon.

Mackerel also has a higher protein and lower cholesterol content, with approximately 21.4 grams of protein and 33 mg of cholesterol per 100 grams. In contrast, salmon contains 19.9 grams of protein and 52 mg of cholesterol in 100 grams.

Additionally, mackerel has tender meat and is easily prepared into various delicious dishes. Its price is also relatively affordable compared to other types of fish. Mackerel is often processed into pindang fish, salted fish, shredded fish, and crackers to extend its shelf life.

3. Benefits of Mackerel for Health

Consuming mackerel regularly is very beneficial for body health, for example, it:

• Maintains heart health by helping to reduce the bad cholesterol levels (LDL) and triglycerides, and increasing the good cholesterol levels (HDL).
• Improves brain function. The omega-3 helps improve memory, concentration, and learning ability.
• Relieves inflammation and maintains immunity with the antioxidants in mackerel.

It’s amazing to discover the many advantages of mackerel! This proves that local fish is just as nutritious for consumption. With its high omega-3 content and various health benefits, mackerel is the best source of animal protein!

To get high-quality mackerel, you can place an order at Seafood by Aruna. We offer mackerel and a variety of other seafood that are ready to be processed and are safe for consumption.