Non-traditional fish scales are becoming a viable export commodity in Bangladesh. In recent times, the country has seen an increase in fish-scale export revenues.
On the surface, fish’s exterior portions appear to be trash, smelling, and affecting the environment, but with the right methods, they may also be profitable. Fish byproducts, including scales, gills, fins and sections of dried shrimp shells, appendages, and air bladders, are valuable in addressing industrial demands in the global market.
Fish scales, a commonly overlooked by-product, have enormous economic potential that goes beyond their aquatic origin.
Fish scales, which are high in collagen, become the principal source for gelatin manufacturing. Gelatin has several applications in the food sector, medicines, and cosmetics. Using gelatin made from fish scales in culinary creations provides a healthier and more environmentally responsible choice for food connoisseurs.
Collagen, a key component of fish scales, has several uses. Collagen is a popular element in a variety of sectors, including medical and cosmetics. Collagen from fish scales is transforming the cosmetic business by giving natural and sustainable alternatives to anti-aging treatments.
Fish scales, on the other hand, have recently emerged as a valuable export commodity in Bangladesh. According to Export Promotion Bureau data, Bangladesh exports fish scales worth Tk 200 crore every year.
Md. Abdur Rouf, the Department of Fisheries’ top scientific officer, stated that non-traditional fish scale export revenues had increased in recent fiscal years. Even though there is no project associated with this item, it has served as a reliable medium for many individuals in remote locations.
According to his statistics, in the fiscal year 2022-2023, a total of 3022 tons of fish scales were sold to various worldwide destinations, earning Tk 40 crore (4 million USD). In the first seven months of this fiscal year, 2874 tonnes of fish scale were exported, generating Tk 80 crore (8 million USD).
This increase in export profits highlights the untapped value of fish scales as a lucrative product in Bangladesh. However, he has stated that the growth and long-term sustainability of this business is highly reliant on the active engagement of the private sector.
Md Bablu, a warehouse owner who gathers fish scales from several fish markets in Jessore, described how the items are handled.
First, fish scales are gathered and rinsed in clean or warm water to remove greasy particles. After washing, moist scales are air-dried under the sun to make them crispy.
Some people crush the scales in grinders and sell the powder.
The dried fish fibers are then carefully wrapped and shipped to various international destinations. For every 20 kg of fish, around 5 kg of fish scales are extracted.
These scales are now carefully gathered and sold for an average price of Tk 70 (0.63 USD) per kilogram, as opposed to the past when they were thrown away. Fish scales, however, range in price depending on the kind and size of fish they originate from. Large fish scales fetch high prices; tiny fish scales, such as shrimp scales, have varied prices. Additionally, the price of fish gills and galls differs from the price of scales.
With the country’s expanding fish production, fish waste management has become a big issue. Experts believe that, in addition to generating revenue, the management of fish waste is critical to environmental preservation.
Fish scale dealers stated that their business could develop even further if the government prioritizes and focuses on it. This will ultimately aid in the control of fish waste.
Fish byproducts have enormous potential, but Bangladesh makes a little fortune from them. This is due to Bangladesh’s inability to process the external sections of fish and other aquatic organisms to get the most value from them. As a result, the country has no other option but to sell discards such as fish scales as raw materials to China, Korea, Thailand, and India, all of which profit handsomely from the byproducts.
By utilizing advanced technology and conducting extensive research, it might be feasible to fully use these byproducts.
For now, focusing on exporting fish scales and other components may be a viable economic strategy. Those involved in this export sector require government assistance in order to harness their full potential.
Jaber Bin Abdul Bari
Department of Oceanography, NSTU
