Discarded Byproduct Turns into Luxury Delicacy, Fetching Millions per Kilogram
What turned this once-discarded item into a luxury good, highly sought after by consumers worldwide?
From Waste to Ultra-Luxury Delicacy
As a highly nutritious food, fish maw has become increasingly popular, especially in the Chinese market.
Fish maw is the swim bladder of fish, a gas-filled sac that helps regulate buoyancy. Previously considered a waste byproduct due to its classification as an internal organ, fish maw was often discarded during fish processing. However, as its nutritional value became more widely recognized, it quickly gained status as a prized delicacy.
Rich in protein, fish maw also contains collagen, calcium, zinc, and various essential vitamins. Some even refer to it as “marine ginseng” due to its health benefits.
Each fish contains only one swim bladder, and the processing of fish maw is highly meticulous, requiring skill and precision. Additionally, several kilograms of fresh fish maw are needed to produce just one kilogram of dried product.
In China, fish maw is considered one of the eight prized delicacies, known for its health benefits such as nourishing the kidneys, enriching the blood, and promoting overall wellness. It is often slow-cooked with longan, walnuts, red dates, and other ingredients to create a nutritious soup. Beyond its culinary appeal, fish maw also symbolizes prosperity and wealth, making it a popular gift for significant occasions.
On the Chinese market, fish maw prices range from $450 to $1,000 (11.3 – 25 million VND) per kilogram, with some varieties commanding even higher prices
