Comparative study of the nutritional composition of wild versus farmed yellowtail (Seriola lalandi)

Understanding the quality of farmed fish and how the quality can vary and compare to the wild equivalent is central to ensuring aquaculture produced fish and products meet consumer and regulatory requirements. Proximate, fatty acid and mineral composition of farmed and wild yellowtail (S. lalandi) was established and compared. No difference in proximate composition (p. ≥ 0.05) between the farmed and wild fish was observed, whilst numerous differences were apparent in fatty acid and mineral compositions. The total SFA, MUFA and PUFA were statistically similar (p. ≥ 0.05) between the two groups (farmed versus wild); however differences at the subgroup and individual fatty acid levels were apparent. The farmed fish had significantly higher (p. < 0.05) Omega 6 and ω6/ω3 and no statistical difference (p. ≥ 0.05) in total Omega 3 concentration between the two groups was found. Wild yellowtail had significantly (p. < 0.05) higher and lower DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid), respectively compared to the farmed fish. An average consumer portion of wild yellowtail (200. g) had EPA. +. DHA concentrations exceeding the recommended dietary allowance whereas the farmed equivalent fell below this threshold. No conclusive result indicated which group (wild or farmed) had superior mineral composition and only four statistical differences were observed. Farmed fish had significantly higher (P < 0.05) levels of calcium and boron and lower (P < 0.05) levels of iron and zinc compared to the wild sampled fish. In addition, both groups had mineral concentrations below the recommended dietary allowance. Misconceptions and unsubstantiated consumer belief currently exist with regard to the nutritional quality of farmed versus wild fish and only limited comparative research has been conducted to date. Therefore this study provides novel information which can aid evidence based consumer decisions and choice whilst also highlighting shortcomings in current culture reared yellowtail. Statement of relevance: The manuscript has produced novel findings which should be of interest to readers in the food science, aquaculture and fisheries sector as well as consumers.Wild S. lalandi is widely consumed throughout its distribution range, while the aquaculture production of S. lalandi has increased considerably in recent years due to its ever increasing demand. Within South Africa and Namibia yellowtail has been identified as a good candidate species for the growing aquaculture sector; however the quality (sensory, nutritive, shelf life stability etc.) of cultured fish can vary and there is inadequate understanding in how well farmed yellowtail compares to its wild counterpart. Therefore this study, in part, fills this current knowledge gap, providing consumers and aquaculturists with enhanced scientific information and understanding