Why do the Spanish hardly eat sea products although they love their flavor? This is a question that we have asked ourselves as a result of a recent study. What factors explain a reduced consumption? Does it have something to do with health? Let's find out!
How many Spaniards eat seafood?
La Spanish Federation of Nutrition, Food and Dietetics Societies (fesnad) has come to a surprising conclusion. This consists in that at 94% of Spaniards like the fish, in addition to sea products. However, only the 23% of the sample of 1500 respondents I used them on a regular basis. By this we mean an average of three or four times a week.
As paradoxical as it may seem, there are other figures behind it that explain these levels of consumption. For example, 32% are put off by the price while 16% are bothered by thorns. In addition, it is worth noting the concern about the content in mercury (10%) and the anisakis (6%). As we can see, concern for health is very present.
What about the mercury?
El mercury It is not a subject that we can take as a joke. It is important to eat fish at different stages of our life. However, we must also take into account the risk. For example, species like emperor shark y Red tuna should be restrained to prevent possible damage. In the case of pregnant or lactating women, as well as children, it is recommended to limit them to 120 grams monthly. In the case of the rest of the population, less modesty is recommended but without avoiding excesses.
This same concern for health has also served as an excuse for many people who have seen their consumption increase. In fact, since the pandemic began, a 20% of respondents He claims to have increased his consumption of seafood. One of the reasons is to eat a diet rich in highly nutritious foods, according to the 85% of the answers. The other more common is for the antioxidant or anti-inflammatory properties of these foods, according to 26%.
What do fish consumers value?
El 66% values sea products for their help in brain development y cognitive. There is also a 45% who appreciates that they serve to control weight. Also, for the 90% of those surveyed it is relevant that the fish is rich in omega-3. On the other hand, they also value that these foods are rich in proteins (76%), minerals (70%) and Vitamins (52%).
Let's keep in mind that the benefits of seafood are undeniable. For this same reason, if you dispense with them, you must find an effective substitute. For example, nuts They are an excellent alternative to many fish due to their high omega-3 content. In addition, proteins can be obtained from different sources such as meats, eggs, dairy… The case is to get information from reliable sources looking for the best for your body.
On the other hand, the most usual place to prepare it and consume it is the housea 92% of respondents. In the same way, it is usually prepared Grilled (83%) and Baked (74%). to a lesser extent it fries (35%), in stews (33%) and steamed (29%).
Thus, we already know the trends of the Spanish population regarding seafood. These represent a very traditional part of gastronomy, especially Coast zones. That is why it is worth knowing the habits of people. In this way it will be possible to design strategies that seek the best both for the health of the people as for the sustainability from sea. And you? How often you eat fish and other sea products?
