By Adewolu Morenike A.
Introduction
One of the serious problems facing developing countries today is how to match food production levels, particularly proteinous foods, with increasing demand by a growing population. The magnitude of this problem is shown in the prevalence of kwashiorkor and other diseases associated with protein deficiencies.
In Nigeria, the average protein intake is low; it is estimated as 45.4g per day. This is below the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO)\World Health Organisation (WHO) recommendation of 70g per day with half coming from plant sources and the remaining half from animal protein sources. This article highlights the importance of fish and soyabean protein as crucial diets for Nigerians.Fish as the healthiest animal protein source
Fish, when compared to beef, chicken, and milk protein has a higher tendency to support health in terms of digestibility, biological value, protein efficiency ratio and amino acid profile. Fish is the most easily digestible of all the dietary animal proteins because of the presence of lower connective tissue. Human beings can utilize up to 85% (WHO). In addition, the cost of fish production when compared to other livestock is cheaper. Fish is more available and readily affordable than other animal protein sources.
Nutritional benefits of eating fish
Nutritionally, fish can be classified into three major categories:
Oily Fish - These fish contain significant amount of oil (about 30%) in their body tissues, belly cavities and guts. Examples are mackerel, salmon, sardines and catfish
Lean Fish - These are the white fish with lower amount of fat content. Examples are soles, cod fish (panla) and tilapias
Shell Fish - These are fish that are covered with shell. Examples are crabs, oysters, lobsters and prawns\shrimps
Fish is an important source of high-quality and digestible protein that contains all the essential amino acids.
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