Research conducted by the Universidade de Aveiro could revolutionize the way waste from the fishing industry is reused and converted into value-added products. The study, published in the prestigious journal Marine Drugs, reveals that ground salmon heads are a valuable source of lipids, with potential applications in the food and nutraceutical industries. The valorization of salmon heads could reduce waste, create new market opportunities, and enhance sustainability. The research is part of the Fish Matter project, coordinated by B2E – Blue Bioeconomy CoLAB.

The team of researchers from the University of Aveiro, composed of João Monteiro, Tiago Sousa, Ricardo Calado, and Rosário Domingues, analyzed the nutritional profile of salmon heads. Marine Drugs magazine is internationally recognized as one of the best in the fields of drug discovery and pharmacology. The results of the researchers from the University of Aveiro, published in this magazine, highlight the potential of salmon heads, often discarded as waste, for various industrial applications, including food and nutraceuticals.

The study points out that there is a high lipid content, with a predominance of oleic acid, followed by palmitic, stearic, and linoleic acids. In other words, the fats present in salmon heads have health benefits and should therefore be used. Oleic acid, also found in olive oil, helps reduce “bad” cholesterol and has anti-inflammatory properties. Linoleic acid, essential for the body, contributes to skin and immune system health. Triglycerides are a source of energy and can improve the balance of fats in the body.

In addition to oil extraction, salmon heads can be used in the formulation of feed for aquaculture and agribusiness. Other applications include biodiesel production and the incorporation of lipids in cosmetic and pharmaceutical products. The study by the University of Aveiro reinforces the need to transform fish industry waste into valuable resources for different sectors.

Smart platform

The Fish Matter project aims to reduce waste in the fishing industry by promoting more efficient use of marine resources. To this end, an Intelligent Platform for the Valorization of Blue Bioeconomy Co-products is being created to connect generators, processing industries, technology suppliers, and scientific collaboration networks.

The goal is to help companies and other stakeholders identify new business opportunities and establish strategic partnerships based on underutilized resources such as fish heads, viscera, skins, and shells.

Developed under the Blue Bioeconomy Pact (PBA) and funded by the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR), Fish Matter, led by B2E CoLAB, places Portugal at the forefront of sustainable innovation. The consortium also includes the University of Aveiro, CIIMAR, IPMA, ISEP, and the University of Minho.