siliconindia | | November 20178SAY `YES' TO SHRIMPSndia is one of the larg-est producers and ex-porter of Shrimp in the world and yet, ironical-ly, their consumption in our country is very less. While most Indians prefer meat and fish, shrimp as a delicacy hasn't tak-en a prominent position in the peo-ple's culinary habits. The demand for shrimp is higher in countries like the US, China, Japan and in Europe. While Indians too are fond of shrimp dishes, especially for their sumptuous taste, their price in the market acts as a deterrent to consumption. More importantly, less awareness on their health benefits is the reason why ma-jority people in India do not opt for them. Of late, more and more people are becoming health conscious, espe-cially the urban elite and the growing middle-class. For non-vegetarians and for those who have reservations with any of meat products like poul-try, mutton, beef and pork, seafood can be a healthy alternative. The health benefits of shrimp have been chronicled in great detail and have also been scientifically proven.World's Healthiest FoodShrimps are one of the world's most versatile foodstuffs. They are not only a protein-rich staple in any bal-anced diet, but a delicacy found in cuisines ranging from North Ameri-ca, to the Mediterranean, to Asia and the Middle East. As farming technol-ogies and logistics solutions continue to develop, more of the world's popu-lation is beginning to enjoy access to this nutrient-dense crustacean. Today, about 55 percent of global commer-cial shrimp is farmed. Continuous research in responsible aqua-culture techniques and sustainable farming will ensure that the nutritional ben-efits of shrimp consumption reach many people throughout the world. Shrimps are rich in protein and are well balanced in all the essential amino acids. Numerous studies have shown that Indian dietary habits are deficient in protein, besides the dubi-ous distinction of India being a home to second highest obese children in the world. Adding shrimps to the diet can do wonders. They are low in cal-ories, with just seven calories con-taining in a medium-sized shrimp. They are also loaded with vitamin D, vitamin B3, and zinc. Being a carb-free food, their consumption aids in weight loss.Trace mineral selenium, pres-ent in shrimps, can help in reducing lung, colorectal and prostate cancer risks. Selenium is a major component of glutathione peroxidase, which is an enzyme with anti-oxidant proper-IN MY OPINIONIOne of the early entrants of the Indian Aquaculture, this Chennai based company is into manufacturing and marketing of shrimp feed, shrimp processing & shrimp export businesses.By Ramakanth V. Akula, CEO, The Waterbase Limited
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