| Author: | Fahmida Rashid Sumaiya |
| Roll: | NFH2002006F |
| Batch | 15th batch |
| Session | 2019-20 |
Abstract:
The Indian squid (Uroteuthis duvaucelii), locally called “Nuilla,” is a non conventional fishery resource in Bangladesh remains underutilized despite its nutritional promise. This study aimed to assess its comprehensive nutritional composition and explore its role in human nutrition. Specimens were collected from the BFDC Fishery Ghat, Cox’s Bazar, during the peak landing period (January), and were separated into edible and non-edible parts for analysis. The length–weight relationship showed a moderate correlation, with a relative condition factor of (Kn = 1.0 ± 0.32) reflecting stable health status of the species and the dressing percentage indicated that 54.74% of the body is edible, while 43.86% is discarded. The macronutrient composition showed that the edible part contained 11.27 ± 0.05% protein, 1.93 ± 0.06% lipid, 84.25 ± 0.14% moisture and 1.19 ± 0.07 % fiber. While the non-edible part also retained considerable nutritional components, including (Protein: 9.83 ± 0.07%, Lipid: 3.02 ± 0.01%, Moisture: 83.85 ± 0.07%, Fiber: 0.94 ± 0.03%). Micronutrient analysis detected 17 minerals, including essential elements such as zinc, iron, calcium and heavy metals like – arsenic, cadmium, lead, chromium, nickel within safe/permissible limits. Amino acid profiling identified a total of 9 essential amino acids (EAA) and 8 non-essential amino acids (NAA) in both edible and non-edible portions. In the edible portion, total EAA and NAA were found to be 6.46 ± 0.59 g/100g and 6.80 ± 0.41 g/100g, respectively, while the non-edible portion contained 5.00 ± 0.07 g/100g of EAA and 5.14 ± 0.11 g/100g of NEAA. Fatty acid analysis indicated in the edible part, SFA, MUFA, and PUFA accounted for 39%, 9% and 49% respectively, whereas the non-edible part contained 45% SFA, 11% MUFA, and 41% PUFA. The edible portion of Uroteuthis duvaucelii contributed significantly to the Recommended Nutrient Intake (RNI) of key groups, particularly children, pregnant and lactating women. It fulfilled over 60% of the daily protein requirement for children and more than 14% for pregnant and lactating women, while exceeding DHA needs by 43.52% in children. These findings showcase the valuable nutritional potential of Indian squid and support the strategic utilization of it in line with the goals of the Blue Economy through efficient use of marine assets.