Dried fish are a hidden gem when it comes to providing essential nutrients to millions of people across Africa. A recent study sheds light on the importance of dried fish in the diets of young children and women, emphasizing their role in addressing malnutrition in the region.
Traditionally overlooked, dried fish are a staple food in many households across Africa due to their affordability and availability. However, due to their production by small-scale fisheries and informal trade, little was known about the nutritional value of dried fish until now.
A team of international researchers, led by academics at Lancaster University, conducted the first large-scale investigation into dried fish consumption. Their findings, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, reveal that dried fish significantly contribute to recommended nutrient intakes for young children and women in several African countries.
Using data from the Living Standards Measurements Study conducted in countries like Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Nigeria, Malawi, Tanzania, and Uganda, the researchers estimated that dried fish are consumed weekly by a third of households in these regions, surpassing the consumption of fresh fish by 54%.
Dried fish play a crucial role in the diets of households near marine coastlines or urban centers, especially in poor communities. This highlights the importance of protecting fish catches for local consumption rather than international markets.
The nutrient content of dried fish was analyzed by examining 19 species from East and West Africa, as well as the Indian Ocean. The study revealed that dried fish are rich in essential nutrients, with small portions contributing significantly to recommended intakes of key minerals like iron and zinc.
Different species of dried fish vary in their nutrient composition, with marine species being high in iron and omega-3 fatty acids, while freshwater species are rich in calcium and zinc. This variety allows for a diverse range of nutrients to be incorporated into diets through dried fish consumption.
Dr. James Robinson, a researcher at Lancaster University, emphasized the importance of dried fish in providing affordable and nutritious food that can be stored for long periods. He highlighted the critical role that dried fish play in ensuring food security and nutrition for vulnerable populations.
The researchers suggest that dried fish could be utilized to prevent micronutrient deficiencies in women and young children in Africa. By incorporating dried fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, iodine, and selenium into meals, it is possible to address malnutrition and promote better health outcomes.
Overall, the study underscores the nutritional value of dried fish and calls for policies to protect the supply of these nutrient-rich foods for local communities. By including dried fish in dietary guidelines and food assistance programs, it is possible to harness their potential to improve public health in Africa and beyond.
