Nutrient composition of milkfish (Chanos chanos, Forskal) from Pangkep, South Sulawesi, Indonesia

Abstract

Introduction: Milkfish is a potential source of animal nutrition, especially for supplying human protein needs. In the present paper, we provide complete data on nutrient content of milkfish that can be used as a reference for diet formulation and for the further processing of milkfish. Methods: Proximate analysis, amino acid and fatty acid composition, and vitamin and mineral content of milkfish were determined. Results: The results showed that milkfish contained high concentration of protein (24.18%) and high proportion of monounsaturated fatty acids as oleic acid (32.11%). The amino acid found in the highest concentration was glutamic acid (1.28%). The macro-minerals in the milkfish were calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), sodium (Na) and potassium (K). Among the micro-minerals present were iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu) and manganese (Mn), and the main vitamins present include A, B1 and B12. Conclusion: Based on their protein content, milkfish may be classified as a source of high protein. Glutamic acid which is the highest amino acid in milkfish as well as fatty acid content of oleic acid makes milkfish a healthful fish.