Andhra Pradesh, despite its status as the largest producer of seafood in India, recent findings reveal a concerning disparity in fish consumption rates within the state. While fish is renowned for its nutritional benefits, including its role as a rich source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids beneficial for heart health, Andhra Pradesh’s per capita fish consumption stands at a mere 8.07 kg, far below the World Health Organization’s recommended 18 kg.
With a coastline spanning 974 km and abundant inland water resources such as rivers, canals, reservoirs, and lakes, Andhra Pradesh boasts ideal conditions for fisheries and aquaculture. The state annually yields over 42 lakh tonnes of fish, a significant portion of which is exported domestically and internationally. Despite this prolific production, the state’s consumption rates pale in comparison to other regions.
In contrast, residents of Lakshadweep exhibit the highest per capita fish consumption at 105.6 kg, followed closely by the Andaman and Nicobar Islands with an annual average of 59.01 kg per person. Addressing this consumption gap, officials from the Fisheries Department emphasize the importance of increasing fish consumption to support local aqua farmers.
To promote healthier dietary habits and bolster fish consumption, the Andhra Pradesh government has unveiled aqua hubs across the state. These hubs are offering a variety of quality seafood products at affordable prices, including live fish, fresh catches, ready-to-eat options, and dried fish. In Visakhapatnam alone, 15 such fish hubs operational.
However, despite the nutritional advantages of fish, chicken remains the preferred protein source for many residents. T. Appala Raju, president of the Broiler Chicken Association in North Andhra Pradesh, cites factors such as perceived fish odour and the need for meticulous cleaning as deterrents to fish consumption, contributing to higher demand for chicken meat.
Experts underscore the health benefits of incorporating fish into regular diets, emphasizing its richness in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, B2, calcium, phosphorus, and essential minerals like zinc, iodine, and iron. Consuming fish at least twice a week is recommended for maintaining optimal health.
As Andhra Pradesh strives to bridge the gap between fish production and consumption, initiatives aimed at promoting awareness of the nutritional benefits of fish and addressing misconceptions surrounding its preparation are crucial steps toward fostering a healthier populace.
