Small pelagic fish supply abundant and affordable micronutrients to low- and middle-income countries

Wild-caught fish provide an irreplaceable source of essential nutrients in food-insecure places. Fishers catch thousands of species, yet the diversity of aquatic foods is often categorized homogeneously as 'fish', obscuring an understanding of which species supply affordable, nutritious and abundant food. Here, we use catch, economic and nutrient data on 2,348 species to identify the most affordable and nutritious fish in 39 low- and middle-income countries. We find that a 100 g portion of fish cost between 10 and 30% of the cheapest daily diet, with small pelagic fish (herring, sardine, anchovy) being the cheapest nutritious fish in 72% of countries. In sub-Saharan Africa, where nutrient deficiencies are rising, <20% of small pelagic catch would meet recommended dietary fish intakes for all children (6 months to 4 years old) living near to water bodies. Nutrition-sensitive policies that ensure local supplies and promote consumption of wild- caught fish could help address nutrient deficiencies in vulnerable populations.

Automated summary

Wild-caught fish are a crucial source of essential nutrients in areas with food insecurity. However, there is a lack of understanding about which fish species provide affordable, nutritious, and diverse food. This study analyzed data on 2,348 fish species in 39 low- and middle-income countries to identify the most affordable and nutritious fish. The findings reveal that small pelagic fish, such as herring, sardine, and anchovy, are the cheapest and most nutritious fish in 72% of countries. However, in sub-Saharan Africa, these fish species alone cannot meet the recommended dietary fish intake for young children living near water bodies.