Dry Fish vs Fresh Fish
India is a land of a zillion fish lovers. It’s incredible to imagine how many people from different parts of the country consume fish and cook them in so many different ways and recipes. And what’s even more fascinating is the fact that people from all strata of the society consume fish – from people living in big metropolitan cities…to people living in the remotest of villages.
In many states, fish is not merely a delicacy but an emotion. People relate to fish on so many levels and while they do, there’s one debate that always needs settling or perhaps lacks some clarity – Dry fish or Fresh fish, which one is better? Now while fish is considered one of the most heart-healthy foods you can eat, you should know which is more beneficial and its right intake levels. Many of us still have this dilemma, so this blog is an attempt to clear the rut and confusion by laying down concrete facts and nothing else.
There is no doubting that many of us commonly perceive fresh fish as a better option over dry fish. Many think consuming dry fish is hazardous to our health as they may contain harmful toxins. But it’s worthwhile weighing facts and only then arrive at a factual conclusion. While there is no denying that eating fresh fish has its own advantages, one should know that fresh fish is prone to going to a stale state quickly. It deteriorates rather sooner and has a relatively short shelf-life. Also, even after multiple washes, fresh fish may still contain some parasites in them, i.e. unless they are frozen deep.
Dry fish on the other hand happened out of a necessity at a time when consumption depended on the local catch. Fish was traditionally dried to be preserved and consumed later during non-fishing months because of its highly perishable nature. It culminated from an ancient method of preservation which involves removing all the water and moisture in the fish. Because fish is dried, there is less or no chance of microorganisms growing in it; and thus preventing the fish from decay or getting spoilt. If facts are to be believed, cured dried fish has a shelf-life of up to two months…which in itself is incredible!
Did you know chewing dry fish also helps in cleaning teeth by removing tartar in our teeth? That’s right! Also, unlike fresh fish, dry fish is firm to the touch. And if you are someone who likes the texture of a fresh fish over dry fish, you can always soak dry fish in water for some time till it retains a fresh-fish like texture. Besides, soaking dry fish not only softens the fish but also washes off the salt, reducing its concentration.
Believe it or not, there are several health benefits of eating dry fish too. A balanced diet that includes dry fish can help lower the risk of autoimmune diseases. Medical experts say dry fish helps fish diabetes, obesity and rheumatoid arthritis. Dry fish is also an excellent source of protein with fewer calories than other types of meat. 100gm of dried fish contains about 80 percent protein with 300 calories while other forms of meat have more than twice the calories with far less protein. Dried fish contains little cholesterol and is high in essential vitamins and minerals.
In a study conducted to examine amino acid levels in eggs and dried fish, it was found that proteins in the dried fish were of high quality. Besides, saturated fat in dried fish is also very less…and so it protects our heart and also regulates blood pressure in the body. Dry fish is a natural anti-depressant and it can improve your mood swings. Research also says people who eat dry fish tend to live longer. If that’s not reason good enough to consume dry fish, I don’t know what is.
In conclusion, while dry fish is a better option to fresh fish and provides numerous health benefits and essential nutrients to our bodies, it is to be consumed in moderation. Like they say, too much of anything can prove harmful.
Credits:
https://www.drbrahma.com/is-dry-fish-good-or-bad-for-health/
https://www.thehindu.com/life-and-style/food/dried-fish-with-its-versatility-is-popular-across-the-country/article32437505.ece
http://babellfs.blogspot.com/2016/02/major-benefits-of-eating-dried-fish.html