Mackerel

Mackerel, a highly prized fish with vertical stripes along their bodies and deeply forked tails, are a pelagic fish from the Scombridae family. Found in both temperate and tropical seas, mackerel are known for living mostly around coastal areas of the world, making them an ideal fish for local consumption. While humans are a major consumer of mackerel, this forage fish is a staple of larger sea predators as well. For this, seabirds, whales, dolphins, tuna and marlin are some of the predatory fish who often enjoy mackerel as a staple of their diet. Human consumption of mackerel reached over 5 million tons in 2009, often eaten for their high omega 3 fatty acid content.

Key Nutrients

Mackerel provides a high amount of omega fatty acids, a positive source of triglycerides. High in vitamin and mineral content, it is also an excellent source of essential amino acids including Histidine, Isoleucine, Leucine, Lysine, Methionine, Phenylalanine, Threonine, Tryptophan and Valine.

Health Benefits

Essential amino acids provide the necessary building blocks for protein growth and development. This tends to promote healthy tissues and reduces the risk of certain cancers.

Omega Fatty Acids – Omega fatty acids are unsaturated fatty acids which help reduce the risk of stroke and promote healthy heart and circulatory functions.

Season

Being a fish, mackerel can be found in most supermarkets or seafood stores year round.

Nutrition Information

Per 100 grams:

Calories (cKal): 205
Protein (grams): 18.60
Total Fat (grams): 13.89
Carbohydrates (grams): 0
Fiber (grams): 0

Buying and Storing

When buying mackerel, make sure the flesh of the fish is bright in color and does not smell like ammonia or the sea. When storing at home, store the fish in a sealed container lined with paper towel for up to two days.

Best Way to Add to Diet

There are many ways to serve mackerel. Grilled mackerel, marinated in thyme, lemon and olive oil, is a great recipe which can be added to any salad, rice or pasta. As a versatile fish, mackerel can also be grilled, poached or roasted.