| Author: | Reshadul Islam |
| Roll: | MUH2002022M |
| Batch | 15th batch |
| Session | 2019-20 |
Abstract:
Marine organisms such as cephalopods are gaining global recognition for their rich nutritional profiles and potential contributions to food and nutrition security. Among them, cuttlefish is a commercially important species in many countries but remains a non conventional and underutilized resource in Bangladesh. Despite being abundantly available in coastal waters, its consumption and value-added utilization are minimal, and most of its non-edible parts are discarded without assessment of their nutritional potential. The present study explored the complete biochemical composition of a locally sourced cuttlefish species by examining both its edible parts (mantle and head) and non-edible parts including bone, skin, ink sac, tentacles and viscera. Standard analytical protocols were employed to determine proximate composition, mineral and heavy metal concentrations, fatty acid and amino acid profiles, and dietary contributions based on Recommended Nutrient Intakes (RNI). The edible portion exhibited high-quality protein (11.69 %) and a favorable n-3/n-6 ratio of 2.88, supported by a combined EPA and DHA content of 142.96 mg/100 g. Among all quantified amino acids, lysine (0.95 g/100 g protein), leucine (1.12 g/100 g), and arginine (1.02 g/100 g) were predominant. The ratios of essential to non-essential amino acids (0.93) further underscored the superior protein quality of cuttlefish muscle, indicating its potential to support tissue repair, immune function, and growth in vulnerable populations. The non-edible parts, often excluded from consumption, were particularly rich in minerals such as calcium (9223.37 mg/kg), iron (25 mg/kg), zinc (44 mg/kg) and selenium (210 mcg/kg), while heavy metal levels remained well within FAO/WHO permissible limits. 100 g portion of edible parts could fulfill approximately 80.89% of daily protein and 94.95% of DHA requirements for 6 11m children. In contrast, a 100 g intake of non-edible parts provided significantly higher mineral contributions—covering up to 43.43% of iron for children, 52.09% of zinc, 92.23% of calcium and 56.25% for lactating women. These findings not only advocate for the nutritional valorization of cuttlefish beyond its edible portion but also support the transition toward circular marine resource use. Integrating such underutilized species and their by-products into mainstream food systems aligns with national Blue Economy goals—enhancing resource efficiency, minimizing post-harvest losses, and strengthening local nutrition security in a sustainable and inclusive manner.