Fish, herring, Pacific, flesh, air-dried, packed in oil (Alaska Native)


 Category: American Indian/Alaska Native Foods

 Nutrition Highlights 


 Serving Size

 Calories

490


 Nutrient
% Daily Value*

  Total Fat 35 g
44 %

  Protein 45 g
89 %

  Water 18 g

  Minerals --
     Phosphorus 684 mg   High
55 %

  Vitamins --
     Thiamin / B1 0.01 mg
1 %

     Niacin / B3 2.2 mg
14 %


*Daily Values are based on the reference caloric intake of 2,000 calories for adults and children aged 4+ years. Source: Food & Drug Administration
 Calorie Sources 
  Nutrient Calories kcal (%)
 Fat 311 (63.6%)
 Protein 178 (36.3%)
Total 490 (100%)

 Serving: 100g/3.5oz [100g]


 Composition 
  Nutrient Weight g (%)
 Protein 45 (44.5%)
 Fat 35 (34.6%)
 Water 18 (18.2%)
 Ash 2.7 (2.7%)
Total 100 (100%)

 Serving: 100g/3.5oz [100g]


 Benefits 
  • High in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Provides over 50% of daily recommended value of vitamin B12 per serving

  • Rich source of selenium which acts as an antioxidant and supports thyroid function

  • Contains EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids which support heart and brain health

  • Low in saturated fat and calories but high in nutrients due to being air-dried and packed in oil

  • May help reduce inflammation throughout the body

 Risks 
  • High in sodium due to being packed in oil. Excess sodium intake is linked to high blood pressure

  • High in calories. Air-dried herring packed in oil is high in fat and calories which can contribute to weight gain if consumed in large amounts

  • May contain small bones. Air-dried herring still contains small bones which could pose a choking risk

  • Potential for spoilage. Packaged fish products should be stored properly and consumed before the expiration date to avoid risks from bacteria like Clostridium botulinum

  • May trigger allergies. Herring is a fish so individuals with fish or seafood allergies need to avoid this product


 Additional Information 

Fish, herring, Pacific, flesh, air-dried, packed in oil (Alaska Native) is a food product that offers numerous nutritional benefits. Herring is a fatty fish that is highly regarded for its rich content of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. However, it is important to consider the potential risks associated with this specific product, such as the oil used for packing and the drying process.

Starting with the nutritional benefits, herring is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. These essential fats have been linked to a wide range of health benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving heart health, and supporting brain function. Omega-3 fatty acids are also known to promote healthy skin and hair.

Additionally, herring is a good source of high-quality protein. Protein is crucial for various bodily functions, including muscle growth and repair, enzyme production, and hormone synthesis. Including herring in your diet can help meet your daily protein requirements.

Herring is rich in several important vitamins and minerals. It is particularly high in vitamin D, which plays a vital role in bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. Vitamin D deficiency is a common concern, especially in regions with limited sunlight exposure, making herring a valuable source of this nutrient.

Furthermore, herring provides significant amounts of vitamin B12, which is essential for nerve function, DNA synthesis, and red blood cell production. It also contains vitamin B6, which is involved in brain development and function.

Mineral-wise, herring is a good source of selenium, which acts as an antioxidant and supports thyroid function. It also contains phosphorus, necessary for bone health, and potassium, which aids in maintaining proper fluid balance and blood pressure regulation.

While herring itself offers various nutritional benefits, it is crucial to consider the potential risks associated with this specific product. The air-drying process may lead to a loss of certain heat-sensitive nutrients, such as vitamin C. However, the impact of this loss is minimal compared to the overall nutritional value of herring.

Another consideration is the oil in which the herring is packed. The type of oil used can vary, and some oils may be less desirable due to their high content of unhealthy fats, such as saturated or trans fats. It is important to choose herring packed in heart-healthy oils like olive oil or canola oil, which provide monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.

Additionally, individuals with specific dietary concerns, such as those following a low-sodium diet, should be cautious when consuming herring packed in oil, as the oil may contain added salt. Checking the nutrition label and opting for low-sodium varieties can help mitigate this risk.

In conclusion, fish, herring, Pacific, flesh, air-dried, packed in oil (Alaska Native) offers numerous nutritional benefits. It is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals. However, it is important to consider the potential risks associated with the oil used for packing and the drying process. Choosing herring packed in heart-healthy oils and being mindful of added salt can help maximize the nutritional benefits while minimizing potential risks.