Tilapia is a mild-flavored fish that is relatively inexpensive, high in protein, and low in fat. It is native to Africa and the Middle East and among several fish species belonging to the family Cichlidae.
They have also been called Saint Peter’s fish in reference to biblical passages about the fish fed to the multitudes, as even the illustrations from Egyptian tombs suggest that Nile tilapia were cultured more than 3,000 years ago.
Being one of the highly sought-after types of fish, it is in controversy after a woman loses her hands and legs after eating undercooked Tilapia fish. The internet is debating whether the fish is real or a genetically engineered fish. However, the truth is that Tilapia is a real fish that has native roots in the Middle East and Africa and is not a man-made fish.
Is Tilapia Fish Safe to Eat?
The fish can adapt to a wide variety of conditions, and their popularity in the aquaculture sector has resulted in tilapias being introduced to several parts of the globe. However, whether it is safe to eat it or not depends on where the fish is sourced from.
Tilapia is safe to eat when farms raise the tilapia in proper conditions. People should also be sure to store it properly and cook it thoroughly before eating.
Is Tilapia Fish Healthy?
Being a pretty impressive source of protein, the fish weighs around 3.5 ounces (100 grams), it packs 26 grams of protein and only 128 calories. Tilapia fish is healthy to eat as it is rich in niacin, vitamin B12, phosphorus, selenium, and potassium.
With only 3 grams of fat per serving, tilapia is listed as one of the best fish choices for pregnant or breastfeeding women and children over the age of 2 years due to its low mercury and contaminant content, according to The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Is Tilapia Fish Available All Over The World?
It is an easy-to-prepare fish that contains beneficial nutrients. Its production statistics go for over 135 countries and territories on all continents. The true number of the producer countries is higher because commercially farmed tilapias are yet to be reflected separately in national statistics in Canada and some European countries.
With its main suppliers being Asian and Central American countries of fish in frozen form and fresh, respectively, its popularity has grown in recent times.
Tilapia is an ideal fish for farming because it doesn’t mind being crowded, grows quickly, and consumes a cheap vegetarian diet, which translates to a relatively inexpensive product compared to other types of seafood.
Let us know in the comments about what you think about the taste of the Tilapia fish. Do you really think it is a man-made fish?