Unlocking critical nutritional potential: A comprehensive analysis of small indigenous fishes in Bangladesh and the development of ready-to-use fish products as balanced food

Abstract

The study aimed to develop fish powder as a promising dietary supplement to combat inadequate nutrition. To achieve this goal, the study assessed the nutritional aspects, including proximate composition, mineral content, amino acid profile, and fatty acid profile, as well as the microbiological quality and heavy metal contents, of six small indigenous fish species. The protein content ranged from 57.73% to 65.26%, with G. chapra exhibiting the highest protein content (p < 0.001). In all fish powders, the mineral composition was found in the following order: Na > P > Ca > K> Mg > Fe > Mn > Zn. The results revealed significantly elevated levels of total essential amino acids in A. mola (227.20 mg/g, p < 0.001). The PUFA/SFA ratio (> 0.45) and ω-6/ω-3 fatty acids ratio (< 4.00) were generally optimal. The quality and safety of the fish products for human consumption were confirmed, as both the total colony count and heavy metal concentrations remained below the recommended threshold. All ready-to-use fish products, except A. mola, meet over 20% of the daily nutritional needs for PLW, infants, and adults. Hence, these findings advocate the utilization of the studied fish species as a dietary supplement to address malnutrition.