Proximate and mineral analysis of Atlantic salmon (Salmo Salar) cultivated in Bulgaria

Problem statement: Only limited information exists on nutrients in salmonoids meat in Bulgaria, which may to be different and vary to a greater extent than the nutrient composition of other fish items. The present paper is aimed to determine the proximate composition, macro and trace elements of Atlantic salmon`s meat. These data could be helpful in judging the value of nutrient composition data as a base for dietary recommendations. Organisms: 12 species of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). Approach: The aim of this study was to determine the proximate composition and levels of iron, potassium, sodium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, selenium and zinc in Atlantic salmon cultivated for the first time in Bulgaria. The content of protein, fat and ash and concentrations of iron, potassium, sodium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, selenium and zinc were determined by automatic systems and electro thermal atomic absorption spectrometry (ETAAS) after microwave digestion. Mean values and their respective coefficients of variation were calculated from the measured concentrations. Conclusion: In order to provide an accurate overview and to be able to calculate reliable dietary intakes, it is important to know the fish composition data.