MALAYSIA: The government is providing assistance, including funding through Agrobank, that can be used by deep sea fishing industry players to modernise vessels and fishing mechanisms, said Agriculture and Food Industries Minister, Datuk Seri Dr Ronald Kiandee.

 

He said the initiatives are not only to help industry players but also to attract more parties to explore the deep-sea fishing sector. “Funding is provided by the government through Agrobank, and we hope that industry players take advantage of the assistance.

 

“We are focusing on the deep-sea fishing industry, which has not been fully explored. This is in line with the National Agrofood Policy 2.0, as it is not only for the continuity of food supply but also opens opportunities to export deep sea fishing resources,” he told reporters after launching a fish processing plant and cold storage facility, here today.

 

In the meantime, he said that the tuna fishing industry has great potential as a new source of wealth for Sabah but has not been fully explored.

 

“The waters of Sabah are rich in deep sea fishing resources that have not yet been explored; these tunas are migratory, unfortunately, they are not caught. Deep sea fishing is a great economic resource to increase the state's income,” he said.

 

From January to August this year, Malaysia recorded 55,138.63 MT of tuna landed, worth more than RM491 million.

 

Meanwhile, Agrobank chief executive officer, Tengku Ahmad Badli Shah Raja Hussin, said that the government, through the bank, is providing RM150 million in funding this year to help the fishing industry players.

 

“In the first phase (of this year), thus far, we have received and approved 37 applications, and have disbursed RM132 million to applicants to finance fishing boats in terms of modernisation - from wooden to fibre vessels, and equipment purchase.

 

“As for the second phase, as much as RM200 million in funds will be provided next year,” he said.

 

He said that Agrobank welcomes applications from local fishermen and together develop the fishing industry towards achieving a sufficient food supply for the people's consumption, thus reducing dependence on imports.

 

Source: Bernama

PERU: According to Produce, in Peru, artisanal fishing and aquaculture contribute 65% of hydrobiological products intended for direct human consumption; that is, it supplies 2 out of 3 of these products that are consumed in the country and takes advantage of nearly 300 species of the thousand available in the Peruvian sea, promoting the diversified consumption of marine biodiversity.

According to the FAO, Peru is the country with the highest consumption of fish in South America with 23 kg per capita per year (2021). Consequently, landings for direct human consumption have increased by 43.9% from 2010 to 2019. However, 39% of producers do not have preservation systems (such as the cold chain) and 84% do not have Sanitary authorization, which increases the risks for human consumption and puts productivity at risk, especially of small artisanal fishermen.

Also, the growth of artisanal fishing and aquaculture has not been sustainable. According to the World Bank, they maintain a high degree of informality with more than 60% of vessels without valid fishing permits and without reporting their catches. To a large extent, this precarious situation has been generated by the lack of attention regarding the development of good practices in artisanal fishermen and aquaculturists, triggering problems of overexploitation. This difficulty, in turn, produces an ecosystem imbalance that causes a decrease in the biomass of marine species.

For this reason, it is necessary to implement a systemic approach in these productive activities, taking into account the environmental alterations caused by overexploitation and limited control. Otherwise, since artisanal fishing and aquaculture are a substantive part of the national diet, there would be serious risks of access to healthy food in the future, as well as in labor matters for the more than 74,000 artisanal fishermen in the country and for the thousands of aquaculturists and mariculturists.

Due to the aforementioned, the FAO is committed to an approach to transforming the production and consumption systems of artisanal hydrobiological products based on the installation of a multisectoral vision that promotes direct human consumption of these. For this, it is necessary to pay special attention to the Andean and high Andean areas that present the lowest per capita consumption at the national level (less than 15 kg per capita, compared to the high values ​​in the coast and jungle, which exceed 30 and 40 kg respectively in the regions with the highest consumption). It must be remembered that in these areas the triple burden of malnutrition – food insecurity, malnutrition and overweight – is evident, with high rates of anemia and chronic child malnutrition, so that an improvement in access to hydrobiological products would have a positive impact. At this point, Andean artisanal fish farmers, mainly trout, play a key role in improving direct human consumption in these regions with high potential for this activity.

 

Likewise, to manage the promotion of consumption, it is necessary to generate better production. As mentioned above, this task requires a systemic approach involving monitoring and control of artisanal fishing and aquaculture. Therefore, it is necessary to promote governance schemes that encourage research and innovation in these chains in order to assess the impacts on aquatic ecosystems, improve real-time traceability systems, promote short marketing circuits and strengthen waste management. and waste of hydrobiological products. On this last point, it also opens up the possibility of creating a link between family farming and artisanal fishing and aquaculture by transforming the waste from these activities into organic fertilizers, which is particularly attractive given the difficulties of access to chemical fertilizers that the country currently faces.

 

Since 2022 is the International Year of Artisanal Fisheries and Aquaculture, it is key to recognize the role that these activities play in food security in Peru and their contribution to achieving Zero Hunger. For this, it is necessary to systematize actions from different fronts, articulating institutions in a multisectoral and multilevel manner, and always with the participation of small fishermen.

 Source: El Peruano

Worldwide: A tuna is a saltwater fish scientifically known as Thunnini. It is part of the mackerel family. Tunas migrate long distances over all the world’s oceans and occupy tropical, temperate, and calmer waters. Their unique body structure facilitates them to cruise through fast, up to 75 km/h.

 

 

They migrate across all oceans and can dive beyond 3,000 feet. Also, they have a life span of 3-5 years to even two decades. They are common in temperate and subtropical waters apart from black waters and the Mediterranean Sea.

 

All variants have similar health benefits. Tuna is enjoyed globally in a wide array of cuisines. Their global availability, nutrient value makes them an exceptional replacement for red meat. Asian Australian and European cuisines use Tuna fish liberally and develop culinary delights enjoyed by all.

 

Tuna is well known for its health benefits. So it’s added in the preparation of delicious dishes like steaks, salads, burgers etc. But, unfortunately, they are endangered as one hunts them for food and sports.

 

Varieties of Tuna

There are eight migratory species of Tuna. The most commonly known varieties of Tuna are the “light” tuna and white Tuna, aka skipjack and Albacore, respectively.

 

• Albacore
• Bigeye tuna
• Blackfin tuna
• Northern bluefin tuna
• Yellowfin tuna
• Southern bluefin tuna
• Skipjack
• Longtail tuna

 

Nutritional Properties of Tuna

Tuna is a commercially valued fish. It is one of the most popular and sought-after varieties of seafood globally due to its meaty flavour and nutritional value. In addition, Tuna is an immense source of vitamins and minerals.

 

One hundred grams of tuna contain:

• Calories-144 kcal
• Cholesterol-60 mg
• Total fat- 4.9g
• Protein- 23.3 g
• Sodium 47-mg
• Potassium-522 mg

Health Benefits of Tuna Fish

The Tuna is tasty and healthy. It is a rich source of protein and essential nutrients like Omega-3 fatty acids. In addition, it has no fat.

 

Tuna is a heart-healthy food. In addition, it is an excellent source of vitamin B12. Therefore, it is vital for DNA and RBC synthesis. Tuna has comprehensive health benefits. Let us evaluate them here.

 

1. Heart-healthy and Prevents Cardiac Disorders

According to a study, the extensive amount of omega-3 fatty acids in tuna fish reduces bad cholesterol or LDL cholesterol. This cholesterol deposits along the arteries of the heart and causes damage. Omega-3 enables the smooth functioning of pumping and circulation of blood across the body. Studies state that regular intake of omega-3 reduces the risks of cardiovascular disease.

 

2. Lowers Blood Pressure

Tuna has a good content of potassium which helps with the regulation of blood pressure. Potassium, along with Omega-3 fatty acids, induces an anti-inflammatory effect. Therefore, it aids in lowering blood pressure, risk of stroke and heart attacks.

 

3. Lowers Triglycerides

According to research, the triglycerides in your blood are the unhealthy fat circulating in your body. They have a connection with LDL or bad cholesterol. The natural oil of Tuna elevates the HDL or good cholesterol to combat the harmful effects of triglyceride.

 

4. Strengthens your Immune System

Manganese, selenium, vitamin C and zinc are essential to improve immunity levels. Tuna fish is a great source of these micronutrients. Moreover, the antioxidants combat the free radicals to prevent infections and control metabolism at the cellular level.

 

5. Tuna Prevents Eye disorders

Another health benefit of Tuna is the omega-3, it sharpens your visual acuity and overall eye health. In addition, Omega-3 caters to overall retinal health. With age, macular degeneration disrupts your vision and results in blindness. The Omega-3 acids effectively interrupt this condition.

 

A study subjecting 40,000 health professionals proved that those who had the prescribed intake of Tuna observed 68% reduced dry eye symptoms.

 

6. Reduces Risk of Cancer

Tuna’s omega-3 fatty acids restrict the growth and multiplication of tumour cells. The antioxidants are anti-inflammatory and inhibit inflammation. In addition, they fight cancerous cells.

Antioxidants are vital because cancer has linkages with chronic inflammation. Therefore, regular consumption of the prescribed amount of Tuna reduces the risk of cancer.

 

 

7. Aids in Weight Management

As per a study, Tuna is lean meat. It is full of protein, nutrients and is low in calories and fat. It keeps you satiated for a long time. As a result, it prevents you from unhealthy snacking. Tuna balances calorie intake, thereby regulating weight.

 

8. Improves bone health

Tuna is a rich source of vitamin B and antioxidants.

 

Vitamin B strengthens bone and prevents fracture. In addition, the antioxidants prevent inflammatory diseases and bone resorption. As a result, daily intake ensures better bone health, another health benefit of tuna.

 

Tuna is also a good source of vitamin D. It may help to enhance the absorption of many essential minerals. It includes calcium, magnesium, and phosphate. These are vital for metabolism and other biological effects. It also reduces the risk of osteoporosis.

 

9. Improves Skin Health

As per research, tuna comprises a protein called elastin. It helps to maintain skin elasticity and a smooth skin tone. In addition, the Vitamin B complex in tuna helps to synthesise new healthy skin cells.

 

10. Provides Energy

The essential nutrients and vitamins in tuna help with the functionality and metabolism of your body. It helps to keep you energetic, active and healthy. Moreover, Tuna is a natural way to boost your immunity. 

 

11. Boosts Blood Circulation

Tuna is an excellent source of iron and vitamin B. Often, the circulatory system may clog down with fat deposits. In most cases, it’s due to unhealthy dietary habits.

 

Iron boosts blood circulation. Vitamin B is essential for red blood cell synthesis. In particular, Vitamin B3 may help improve blood circulation and lower bad cholesterol. In addition, B3 also lowers bad cholesterol in the blood. Therefore, Iron and Vitamin B contribute to the wellness of the circulatory system. Tuna is rich in both.

 

12. Antidepressant and Anti-Anxiety Properties

Omega-3 fatty acids play a vital role in your brain’s functions. Studies show omega-3 fatty acids may help cure depression. Regular intake of Tuna proves more effective than antidepressants. This study broke people into the Placebo group, Prozac, and Tuna groups. The highest reduction in stress was in the tuna group.

 

Selenium is another nutrient in Tuna which controls mood. Research shows that selenium deficiency triggers anxiety and omega-3 acids also improve your psychological balance.

 

13. Diabetes Management by Tuna

Tuna is free of carbohydrates. It is laden with essential nutrients for diabetes management. Alongside, the omega-3 acids and the antioxidants control the insulin levels. It boosts insulin response. Therefore, we recommend dietary intake of tuna twice per week.

 

14. Brain development and Nervous System

The omega -3 acids in tuna meat play an essential role in boosting brain functions. It happens when oxygenated blood in a clean bloodstream circulates in the brain. The omega-3 acids help reduce the fat accumulation in blood vessels, allowing smooth blood flow. It also boosts memory and reduces memory disorders in Alzheimer’s.

 

12. Inhibits Risk of Dementia

Strokes and vascular brain injuries alter your cognitive function and memory. A balanced intake of omega-3 fatty acids may inhibit the progression of dementia. They, along with antioxidants, hinder the inflammatory changes at the cellular level. As a result, it lowers the risk of impaired vascular cognitive function and symptoms of dementia.

 

13. Inhibits cell damage

Proteins in Tuna are simplified into peptides. These peptides help cell membranes improve cellular-level metabolism. As a result, it helps regulate the structure and function of your body’s tissues and organs. Tuna is an excellent source of protein and hence it helps to prevent cell damage.

14. Anti-inflammatory

 

The vital nutrients and antioxidants contain anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, the minerals and good cholesterol or HDL, in tuna, improve the efficiency of essential nutrients. Therefore, this results in healthy body function and the prevention of inflammatory arthritic disorder.

 

15. Helps Prevent Anaemia

Anaemia is a condition when the body lacks enough red blood cells to transport oxygen. Some of its symptoms are muscle weakness, blurred vision, fatigue. It can be a result of a deficiency of folate, Vitamin B12, and iron. Tuna is a rich source of these nutrients and hence may prove helpful to reverse this condition.

Now you have enough reasons to make Tuna a part of your daily diet, to be healthier.

Source: https://www.healthifyme.com/blog/tuna-fish/