Affordable Nutrient Density of Aquatic Foods in the FAO uFISH Database Assessed Using Nutrient Rich Food (NRF) Indices

Abstract

Background: Fish and shellfish have the potential to improve global public health by alleviating protein-energy malnutrition and closing micronutrient gaps. Objectives: To determine nutrient density of fish and shellfish in the FAO/INFOODS uFISH database using the Nutrient Rich Food (NRF) index and compare their affordability in relation to protein and priority micronutrient content. Methods: Two versions of NRF index were applied to the uFISH database. NRF6.2 was based on 6 priority micronutrients: iron, zinc, calcium, vitamin A, vitamin B12, and folate. NRF9.2, specifically tailored to fish and shellfish, used protein, calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, selenium, vitamin A, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids. Saturated fat and sodium were the 2 nutrients to limit. The NRF score was the sum of percent daily values (%DVs) for nutrients to encourage minus the sum of %DVs for nutrients to limit, capped at 100%. Food prices were obtained from GlobeFish. Affordability was calculated as protein and nutrients per penny. Results: The NRF6.2 score identified mollusks, and especially bivalves, as the best aquatic source of priority micronutrients. The NRF9.2b identified small pelagic fish as the most nutrient rich, followed by bivalves. Mollusks scored higher compared to finfish and crustaceans. Mackerel, tilapia, squid, and mussels provided the most protein per penny. Mackerel and tilapia provided the most NRF6.2 and NRF9.2b nutrients per penny. Conclusion: Fish and shellfish are an affordable source of protein, omega-3, and priority micronutrients. Disaggregating species within the broad seafood category reveals differences in cost and nutrient density, with mackerel, tilapia, squid, and mussels earning the highest scores.