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

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

Format: Article
Diterbitkan: MDPI AG 2024-04-01

Deskripsi

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. <i>Maurolicus muelleri</i> and <i>Benthosema glaciale</i> were the dominant species in the catch, while krill was the primary bycatch. The lipid composition varied, with <i>B. glaciale</i> 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.