Is it more nutritious to eat freshwater fish or saltwater fish?
Experts will answer the question of whether saltwater or freshwater fish is more nutritious in this article.
According to Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Duy Thinh, former staff member of Hanoi University of Science and Technology, eating fish regularly is very good for health. Compared to protein and fat from pork and beef, fish is easier to digest and contains many valuable minerals that meat lacks or has in smaller quantities.
People living in coastal areas tend to consume more saltwater fish, while those living further from the coast mainly eat freshwater fish. The nutritional value of both types is generally similar, but saltwater fish have a higher energy content.
Among freshwater fish, catfish and basa provide the most energy (1,245-1,700 kcal/kg). In saltwater fish, tuna, mackerel, and herring are the most energy-rich (1,500-2,300 kcal/kg).
Currently, due to environmental pollution and farming methods, farmed saltwater fish are considered safer than freshwater fish. Freshwater fish are at risk of heavy metal residues and antibiotics from animal feed; therefore, if access to safe marine fish sources is available, consumption should be prioritized.
However, people with allergies or a tendency to food poisoning should be cautious with certain types of seafood such as squid and tuna, as they may contain compounds that can easily cause adverse reactions.
Maintaining a varied diet is important. If a safe source of freshwater fish is available, eating it regularly is also very beneficial for health. Nutritionists recommend including a diverse range of foods to ensure adequate nutrition and make meals more enjoyable.
