Proximate and Mineral Content of Traditional Smoked Fish Species from Lake Kainji, Nigeria

Investigation into proximate and mineral content of three commercially important fish species (Lates niloticus, Clarias anguillaris and Hemisynodontis membranaceus using the traditional smoked method was conducted. Proximate analysis showed significant differences (P< 0.05) among the fish samples. However, there was no significant difference in their mineral content. Crude protein in fish samples was in the range (26.54±26 – 36.56±0.22) while fat was (16.43±0.1824.18±0.43). Ash content was however in the range (0.43±0.23 – 4.41±0.44). The result of the mineral content indicated highest values in phosphorous and magnesium in all three species (108.14±42.34 – 119.23±54.64) and (79.10±8.38 – 98.57±12.8) respectively. Iron had the least value in range (9.84±1.16 – 16.47 ± 2.18) among the fish samples. Heavy metal such as cadmium and nickel was not detected from fish samples