Fatty acid profiles and mineral contents of selected freshwater fishes of Maharashtra, India: A comparative analysis

Aim: The study aimed to evaluate fatty acids and mineral content of four selected freshwater fish species. Methodology: Fresh fish, Labeo calbasu, Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, Oreochromis niloticus and Pangasianodon pangassius were processed for preparation of fish powder. The fish powder was analyzed for fatty acids content in gas chromatography. Lipid health indices were calculated. The mineral analysis was performed using an Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Results: Among fatty acids, total saturated fatty acids (SFA) varied between 1039.09 mg 100 g-1 in silver carp and 4669.58 mg 100 g-1 in pangassius. Total monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) ranged from 1343.4 mg 100 g-1 to 2419.51 mg 100 g-1. Palmitic acid and Oleic acid were found to be the most dominant individual SFA and MUFA respectively in fishes. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) content varied from 446.72 mg 100 g-1 to 1221.14 mg 100 g-1. Docosahexaenoic acid (5.67 mg 100 g-1) and eicosapentaenoic acid (6.58 mg 100 g-1) contents were found highest in tilapia. All fishes were characterized by high levels of ω-3 fatty acids than ω-6 fatty acids. Minerals such as Ca, Na, K, Mg, Zn and Fe were observed in appreciable quantities. Interpretation: The results of the present study revealed that selected fish species have high and nutritious fatty acids and mineral composition for offering positive health benefits upon consumption. Key words: Atherogenicity index, Freshwater fish, Fatty acids, Minerals, Thrombogenicity index