Fish Milk Proposed in President-Elect Prabowo's Free Meal Program

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Fish milk is anticipated to be a potential substitute for cow's milk in the Free Nutritious Meals and Free Cow's Milk Program initiated by President-elect Prabowo Subianto and Vice President-elect Gibran Rakabuming Raka. This proposal arises from concerns about the insufficient supply of cow's milk to meet the program's demands.

However, the concept of fish milk remains unfamiliar to many people. Social media users have questioned the term, considering that fish are not mammals with mammary glands.

What is Fish Milk?

Fish milk was initially introduced by the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries in collaboration with the Ministry of Cooperatives and Small and Medium Enterprises.

This innovative product, part of an effort to promote the downstreaming of fishery products, is produced by processing fish using modern technology to create fish protein hydrolysate (HPI).

“This will play a crucial role in increasing the downstreaming of fishery products, aligning with President Joko Widodo's (Jokowi) vision,” said Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Sakti Wahyu Trenggono in an official statement in Indramayu, West Java, on Thursday, August 24, 2023.

Trenggono explained that fish milk combines the health benefits of fish protein with product diversification, enhancing product value and competitiveness. He emphasized that this innovative product is a vital step to ensure that Indonesia's abundant fishery resources benefit the community.

“I am very proud and excited to discuss fishery products that offer numerous advantages as a primary source of protein, contributing to the development of a superior and intelligent generation of our nation,” Trenggono remarked.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Fish Milk

The HPI derivative product, developed by Indonesian researchers, is claimed to have several benefits, including a high content of omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. Additionally, fish milk is said to be hypoallergenic and easily digestible, with a protein absorption rate of up to 96 percent.

“Fish milk is a healthy beverage suitable for consumption by all ages,” Trenggono affirmed.

On a separate occasion, a Dietitian from Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital (RSUPN) Jakarta, Fitri Hudayani, explained that fish milk could be a valuable source of animal protein.

“Compared to other animal sources, fish offers beneficial types of fat and is a good source of omega-3 for health, supporting both growth and brain development,” Fitri said on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, as reported by Antara.

However, she cautioned that the production of fish milk is currently limited in Indonesia. Due to its novelty and limited availability, it is essential to consider the ease of obtaining fish milk for daily consumption to ensure consistency.

Furthermore, Fitri mentioned that fish milk may contain allergens similar to cow's milk, so it needs careful consideration for individuals with allergy histories. Additionally, the taste and aroma of fish milk may not be universally appealing.

According to her, various fish extract products are already available in forms other than drinks, such as fish capsules, fish flour, and fish extract. These products can be beneficial for individuals requiring higher protein intake, such as those with malnutrition or infectious diseases.

MELYNDA DWI PUSPITA

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