Pangasius silasi, a fish species endemic to Krishna River in India, reveals a healthy PUFA and nutritional profile: Could be a promising species as human food

Abstract

In recent years Pangasiidae fishes are gaining increased attention, as there is good consumer demand. Pangasius pangasius was the only known species in south Asia, until the recent discovery of Pangasius silasi from India. The bassa fillets of Pangasius boucarti are globally traded due to its white meat. Having similar characteristic of white meat, P. silasi also appears to be a promising species. Analysing nutritional composition of P. silasi is important for strategy formulation aimed at sustainable utilisation of the species. Hence, a comprehensive nutritional profile assessment of P. silasi was undertaken and the results were compared with those of other two Pangasids, which are widely traded. Study also evaluated the potential of this species for mechanised filleting and yield, which is an important parameter in acceptability of fish meat as a marketable product. The results revealed that, P. silasi have fairly high content of protein, n-3 and n-6 fatty acids especially eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and high n-3 to n-6 fatty acid ratio. The high levels of essential amino acids will position it as superior food source particularly in complementing cereals. Considering its high protein content and healthy PUFA profile, P. silasi emerges as a candidate species for inclusion in human diet at affordable price.