New research published in Nature has highlighted the significant nutritional potential of aquatic invertebrates, including mussels, oysters, clams, crabs and other species, drawing attention to their possible contribution to nutrition security and sustainable food systems.
The study examined nutrient data alongside global fisheries and aquaculture production and found that aquatic invertebrates can provide important quantities of several essential nutrients. These include vitamin B12, selenium, iodine, zinc, copper, iron, magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids. The researchers estimate that current aquatic invertebrate production provides nutrient quantities equivalent to the annual vitamin B12 and selenium requirements of more than five billion people, while supplies of copper, omega-3 fatty acids, iodine and zinc could meet the equivalent annual requirements of more than one billion people.
The findings are particularly relevant to discussions around micronutrient deficiencies. According to the research, nutrient concentrations vary considerably among different groups of aquatic invertebrates and can also be influenced by environmental and ecological factors. Bivalves, for example, showed particularly high concentrations of iron, iodine, zinc and vitamin B12 compared with average values across the invertebrates studied.
The research also demonstrates the broader relationship between aquatic foods, nutrition and sustainable development. Better access to diverse, nutrient-rich foods can contribute to efforts addressing nutrition security, while responsible production and consumption are important considerations for the long-term sustainability of aquatic food systems.
These connections are relevant to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The nutritional potential of aquatic invertebrates relates directly to SDG 2: Zero Hunger, which focuses on ending hunger and improving access to safe and nutritious food. Their contribution to diverse diets also connects with SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being.
At the same time, responsible production and consumption of aquatic foods relates to SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, while the conservation and sustainable management of marine resources connects with SDG 14: Life Below Water.
Importantly, the researchers caution that the nutritional potential of aquatic invertebrates should not be interpreted as a reason for increased exploitation. Instead, they highlight the need to protect biodiversity, maintain healthy aquatic ecosystems and sustainably manage the resources that support these foods. Food safety, affordability, cultural acceptance and access also remain important factors in determining their contribution to nutrition.
The research offers a broader perspective on the future of food systems, showing how nutrition, aquatic resources and environmental sustainability can be considered together. As global food challenges continue to evolve, nutrient-rich aquatic foods may have a role to play in developing more diverse and sustainable approaches to nutrition security.
