Pilchards…

Pilchards are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. It contains valuable nutrition that provides many health benefits to your family at an affordable price. Canned pilchards are an all-time favourite. It is ideal for most occasions. Pilchards are of the same species as sardines. They belong to the Latin name Sardinus pilchardus. Smaller fish are commonly called sardines and larger, older fish are known as pilchards. They normally range between 80g to 150g and are suitable to grill whole. Therefore, they are mostly served as a starter. Fishermen claim while the two fish are essentially the same, a pilchard is more than 150mm long.

It was originally marketed as the pilchard. The fish was salted and sold in large quantities during the 19^th century. Thus far, salmon imports from Canada and the introduction of Pacific tuna killed the market by the 1990s.

Consumer well-being

Consumer concerns about fish continue to grow more acute daily. It is a dilemma for the concerned fish eaters. They are putting their health first. Hence, their choice is enhanced by the natural goodness of oily fish. Consumers are looking for fish rich in omega-3 fats. Therefore, sales of fish oil supplements are soaring. It is driven by suggestions that it can increase longevity. People see it as improving children’s behaviour too.

While environmentalists warn that stocks of many fish are deleting, consumers are looking for their well-being before the dwindling fish population. Environmentalists encourage that we should stop eating fish. They also claim toxins have built up in fatty tissue of fish with decided of industrial pollution of the oceans.

Sustainable fishing

Specialist organisations monitoring the oceans worldwide draw up a list of fish that are healthy and sustainable. It includes the top of health which are oily fish, rich in omega-3s that are free of contaminants. So the top 10 fish are herring, kippers, pilchards, sardines, sprats, trout, whitebait, anchovies, carp and mussels. Of these, pilchards, sardines and sprats are with the highest concentration of omega-3 fats.

Canned pilchards

Canned pilchards are always available. They are processed from older and bigger fish. However, it may be somewhat daunting because of high oil content. It is often in fishiness flavour too. Fresh and frozen pilchards are available throughout the year too. However, fresh pilchards have a shorter life than all the oily fish. Vacuum-packing greatly extends its shelf life as does buying frozen stock. Otherwise, canned pilchards are best options. It is shelf-stable for longer.

Canned pilchards variety generally are presented in tomato sauce. They are suitable for a wider range of recipes too. Thus far, it is ideal with pasta to baking including serving with mashed potatoes. You will create highly nutritious dishes for your family. It will provide many health benefits and deserves to be widely enjoyed.

Fresh pilchards

You may lightly poach, grill or bake fresh pilchards. While there will be a considerable oily whiff, it is less when cooking in water. So, the Scottish way of cooking pilchards in oatmeal works well too. Pilchards’ robustness makes it suitable for cooking curries or fish stews. These are likeable in all styles and nationalities. It is also known to craft delicious pies with skinned and boned pilchards. Thus far, the oil of the fish is expected to drain into the main filling during the cooking process. You may like to add potatoes, egg and other variable ingredients.