Basa fish is a popular and cheap alternative for cod or haddock. Like other fish, it’s a healthy source of omega-3s and protein. But certain health risks are associated with consuming basa, including food poisoning.
In the countries that import it, it’s often used as a cheap alternative to cod or haddock due to its similar taste and texture.
This article reviews the nutrition of basa fish and whether eating it is healthy or risky.
Basa is a type of catfish belonging to the Pangasiidae family. Its formal scientific name is Pangasius bocourti, though it’s often called basa fish or bocourti in the United States.
You may also have heard basa fish referred to as river cobbler, Vietnamese cobbler, pangasius, or swai.
Its flesh has a light, firm texture and a mild fish flavor — similar to cod or haddock. In fact, it’s often sold as boneless fish fillets and used in the same way.
Basa fish are native to the Mekong and Chao Phraya rivers, which run through several countries in Southeast Asia.
Due to its popularity and the high demand for export, it’s also farmed in large numbers in pens surrounding the Mekong River.
One reason Basa is so popular is its cost. It’s cheap to grow and harvest, making it competitively priced, even when exported abroad.
Like other types of white fish, basa is low in calories and rich in high-quality protein.
Due to its low calorie and high protein content, it can be a beneficial food for those on a diet — not unlike other types of white fish.
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats important for maintaining the optimum health of your body and brain — especially as you age (2).
However, basa is much lower in omega-3 fats than oily fish like salmon and mackerel (1).
Eating fish has also been linked to a number of health benefits, including longevity and a lower risk of heart disease.
People Who Eat Fish May Live Longer
Observational studies have found that people who eat more fish live longer than those who don’t (3).
In fact, in one study, those who ate the most fish — which was measured by testing the levels of omega-3 fats in their bloodstream — lived just over two years longer than those who ate the least (4).
Though omega-3 fatty acids are found in the highest amounts in oily fish, leaner fish like basa can still contribute to your omega-3 intake.
Keep in mind that observational studies cannot prove cause and effect. Therefore, these studies cannot say that eating fish is what makes people live longer.
Still, research suggests that fish like basa are a healthy addition to a balanced diet.
Amazing indian Basa Fish boneless and Skinless Cutting skills of ( Pangasius Fish )
Where do basa fish come from?
Basa fish are native to the Mekong and Chao Phraya rivers, which run through several countries in Southeast Asia. Due to its popularity and the high demand for export, it’s also farmed in large numbers in pens surrounding the Mekong River. One reason Basa is so popular is its cost.
Is a shark catfish a basa fish?
Other related shark catfish may occasionally be incorrectly labeled as basa fish, including P. hypophthalmus (iridescent shark) and P. pangasius (yellowtail catfish). The body of the basa is stout and heavy. The rounded head is broader than it is long, with the blunt snout having a white band on its muzzle.
What does a basa fish taste like?
Basa has a light pinkish flesh and a firm texture. It is a single bonefish with a broad frame and small head. In addition, it is an economical alternative to cod or haddock due to its similar taste and texture. Western countries sell it as a boneless fish fillet. Basa fish is prevalent in restaurants owing to its low price and mild smell.
What is basa fish – Pangasius bocourti?
Basa fish ( Pangasius bocourti) is a variety of catfish found throughout Vietnam, Thailand, and in the other parts of Indochina. This fish is quite popular due to its similar flavor and consistency to haddock or cod, but it has a much lower price.