nalysis of Fatty Acid Composition in the Flesh of Boal (Wallagu Attu)

Abstract

The fatty acid composition of the muscle tissue of Wallagu attu found in Gangetic West Bengal, India was investigated to get an insight of its nutritional capacity. The fish muscle proved to be a rich source of both mono and poly unsaturated fatty acids. Of the saturated fatty acids Palmitic and Heneicosanoic acid is detected in considerable amount. Of the MUFA’s present Palmetoleic acid, Elaidic acid, Oleic acid and nervonic acid is found in good amount. Nutritionally important ω-6 PUFA’s like Linoleic acid and Arachidonic acid are found in the fish. EPA and DHA the two star ω-3 PUFA’s whose health benefits are beyond doubt are also detected in the fish. Wallagu attu is generally not farmed as it devours other fishes but considering its nutritional capacity and high market demands, its farming may prove beneficial for consumers and producers.