Foods (Apr 2024)

Exploring the Potential of Atlantic Mesopelagic Species Processed on Board Commercial Fishing Vessels as a Source of Dietary Lipids

  • Maria A. Madina,
  • Eduardo Grimaldo,
  • Leif Grimsmo,
  • Bendik Toldnes,
  • Rasa Slizyte,
  • Ana Karina Carvajal,
  • Marte Schei,
  • Merethe Selnes,
  • Eva Falch

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13071094
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 13, no. 7
p. 1094

Abstract

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This study investigates the use of untapped mesopelagic species as a source of long-chain polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids (LC n-3 PUFAs) to meet the growing demand. The challenges faced by commercial fishing vessels, such as varying catch rates and species distribution affecting lipid levels, are addressed. Marine oils were produced post-catch using thermal separation and enzymatic hydrolysis during four commercial cruises, screening approximately 20,000 kg of mixed mesopelagic species. Maurolicus muelleri and Benthosema glaciale were the dominant species in the catch, while krill was the primary bycatch. The lipid composition varied, with B. glaciale having a higher prevalence of wax esters, while triacylglycerols and phospholipids were more predominant in the other species. LC n-3 PUFAs ranged from 19% to 44% of lipids, with an average EPA + DHA content of 202 mg/g of oil. Both processing methods achieved oil recoveries of over 90%. Estimates indicate that the mesopelagic biomass in the Northeast Atlantic could supply annual recommended levels of EPA + DHA to 1.5 million people, promoting healthy heart and brain functions. These findings offer valuable insights for considering mesopelagic species as a potential source of dietary marine lipids, laying the groundwork for further research and innovation in processing and obtaining valuable compounds from such species.

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