Atlantic Mackerel ( Scomber scombrus , L): Seasonal Variation in Proximate Composition and Distribution of Chemical Nutrients

ABSTRACT The chemical components of Atlantic Mackerel ( Scomber scombrus ) were investigated. An average of 53.5% of the fish consisted of edible portions, with more than 16% protein. PER values for raw and cooked muscles were 3.7 and 3.1, respectively, with casein being 2.5. The amino acid profile indicated equal or above average values for the essential amino acids when compared to casein. Lipid levels varied seasonally with the moisture content in various edible portions. A 1:3 ratio of saturated to polyunsaturated fatty acids was observed in this species. Sodium levels were 0.07% on a wet basis which suggests inclusion of this species in low sodium diets.