The Proximate Composition and Fatty Acid Profiles of Edible Parts of Two Freshwater Mussels

The proximate compositions and fatty acid profiles of the freshwater mussels Unto terminalis and Potamida littoral is were compared. The crude protein (11.87-11.97%), lipid (2.55-1.05%), ash (1.68-1.61%) and moisture (80.36-81.69%) contents of U. terminalis and P. littoralis were observed. Lipid content of U. terminalis was found to be significantly (P < 0.05) higher than in P. littoralis. The percentages of total saturated fatty acids (SFA) and total monounsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) were higher in U. terminalis than in P. littoralis, whereas the corresponding total polyunsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) content was lower. The n3/n6 ratio of U. terminalis and P. littoral is were 1.54-1.40, respectively. The data obtained indicate that the % composition of n3 PUFAs is greater for U. terminalis. Both of these species are good sources of EPA and DHA. Therefore, it was concluded that freshwater mussels U. terminalis and P. littoralis are suitable as healthy food choice.