Silver fish: Cheap and nutritious

Jun 19, 2019

Mukene has polyunsaturated fatty acids like omega 3 and omega 6, which aid the treatment of cardiac (heart-related) diseases and reduces risks of clotting and high blood pressure.

NUTRITION  HEALTH

 

The market for silver fish (mukene) is growing as demand is increasing in Uganda and the surrounding countries.

 

In local markets like Kalerwe, Nakawa, Owino and Kasubi, unprocessed mukene is sold in small polythene bags at sh500, while plastic containers and tins cost between sh1,000 and sh7,000 depending on the pack size.

 

In supermarkets, 100g packs of processed mukene costs between sh5,000 and sh6,000.

 

According to Nulu Nalwanga a nutritionist at Mulago Hospital Kawempe, mukene contains proteins and calcium.

 

She adds that mukene contains phosphorous, which aids brain and bone development.

 

Sharon Naluwende, a nutritionist at Mulago Hospital says, mukene fat is easily digestible since it is liquid at room temperature.

 

Women drying fish (File photo)

 

Mukene has polyunsaturated fatty acids like omega 3 and omega 6, which aid the treatment of cardiac (heart-related) diseases and reduces risks of clotting and high blood pressure.

 

"Vitamin A and Omega fatty acids, found in mukene, aid good vision.

 

Generally, fish oils contain vitamins A and E, which improve skin health," Naluwende explains.

 

Vitamins C and E, beta-carotene and zinc can slow the progression of muscular degeneration that is in the intermediate stages and doctors commonly prescribe it for such patients.

 

She advises that one should eat fish at least three times a week. However, when overheated, the nutrients in silverfish are lost.