June 22, 2006

 

Irish research shows more eating fish for health benefits

 

 

More people are eating fish aware of the health benefits it brings, according to new research carried out by Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), the Irish Sea Fisheries Board.

 

Ireland has a major salmon industry, both in wild-catch and farmed salmon.

 

Fish is the second most popular household choice with close to 80 percent of those surveyed choosing it as a regular meal-time option. The top choice is chicken.

 

Fish consumption also increased from 59 times a year in 2003 to 68 times a year during 2005.

 

Almost half of all adults surveyed knew it is the Omega-3 contained in oil-rich fish that delivers health benefits.

 

71 percent of respondents knew that Omega-3 is associated with reducing the risk of heart disease.

 

In addition to showing high levels of awareness of Omega 3 health benefits, of those surveyed, more than half of the respondents knew that fish is a source of essential minerals such as iodine and zinc.

 

Omega-3 fats cannot be made in the body and are only found in a few foods, with oil-rich fish being amongst the richest food source of Omega-3.

 

Omega-3 also helps brain and nerve development in unborn babies, infants and young children.

 

Health and nutrition experts currently recommend eating fish at least twice a week.