For years, salmon has been crowned the king of omega-3. It sits proudly on restaurant menus, diet plans, and health blogs across the world. Many people believe that if you want a healthy heart, a sharp brain, and balanced cholesterol, salmon is the only answer.
But sometimes, the truth lives closer than we think.
In the rivers, lakes, and seas of Indonesia, there are native fish—humble, familiar, and often overlooked—that quietly carry omega-3 levels equal to, and in some cases higher than, salmon. These fish are not imported. They are not expensive. They are part of our waters, our markets, and our daily lives.
Like a story Tere Liye would tell, this is not just about nutrition. This is about rediscovering value, choosing wisely, and realizing that the best solutions are often already in front of us.
And if you care about your health, your family, and sustainable choices—this story is for you.
First of All, Why Omega-3 Truly Matters for Your Body
Before we talk about fish, we must talk about omega-3 itself.
Omega-3 fatty acids—especially DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)—are essential nutrients that the human body cannot produce on its own. They must come from food.
Scientifically, omega-3 is proven to:
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Reduce bad cholesterol (LDL)
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Support heart health and reduce inflammation
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Improve brain function and memory
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Protect eye health
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Support muscle recovery and metabolism
DHA plays a crucial role in brain development and cognitive performance. Meanwhile, EPA helps regulate inflammation and keeps the heart working smoothly. Together, they form a foundation for long-term health.
This is why many people turn to salmon.
However, what if we told you that Indonesia’s native fish provide the same benefits—sometimes even more—without the high price tag?
This is where the story becomes interesting.
Meanwhile, Eel (Ikan Sidat): Indonesia’s Omega-3 Powerhouse
According to Gadis Sri Haryani, a senior researcher at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), eel—or ikan sidat—contains the highest levels of omega-3 (DHA and EPA) compared to salmon, snakehead fish, and other popular choices.
Surprising? Yes. Powerful? Absolutely.
Eel is not only rich in omega-3 but also packed with:
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Vitamin A
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B-complex vitamins
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Iron
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High-quality protein
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Phosphorus
For years, salmon was assumed to be superior. Yet research shows that eel quietly surpasses it in nutritional value.
From a health perspective, this means choosing eel can:
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Support brain development in children
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Improve focus and memory in adults
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Reduce inflammation and support heart health
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Strengthen immunity and muscle function
From a lifestyle perspective, it means choosing local excellence over imported prestige.
And from a purchasing perspective, eel represents a premium-quality product that deserves a place on your table—especially if sourced responsibly from sustainable fisheries.
Choosing eel is not just healthy. It’s a statement.
Furthermore, Sustainable Choices Protect Health and the Future
Health should never come at the cost of nature.
Researchers from BRIN emphasize that eel populations must be managed through science-based and sustainable fisheries. Overexploitation threatens not only the ecosystem but also Indonesia’s long-term economic potential.
By choosing responsibly sourced eel products—from trusted fisheries and ethical suppliers—you support:
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Sustainable fishing practices
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Local fishermen and communities
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Long-term availability of high-quality nutrition
This is where conscious purchasing matters.
When you buy Indonesian eel from reliable sources, you’re not just buying food—you’re investing in health, sustainability, and national strength.
On the Other Hand, Mackerel (Ikan Kembung): Affordable, Nutritious, and Underrated
If eel is the hidden champion, then mackerel (ikan kembung) is the everyday hero.
Clinical nutrition specialist Dr. Diana Felicia Suganda, MKes, SpGK, confirms that the protein and omega-3 content of mackerel is comparable to salmon—at a fraction of the cost.
This matters, especially for families.
Many people believe that high-quality animal protein must be expensive. That belief is wrong.
Mackerel offers:
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High protein for muscle growth
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Omega-3 for heart and brain health
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Support for eye function
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A perfect option for weight-loss diets
According to Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, mackerel ranked fourth in national capture fisheries production in 2024, proving its availability and importance.
This means mackerel is:
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Easy to find
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Budget-friendly
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Nutritionally powerful
From a conversion standpoint, mackerel is the smartest choice for those who want maximum health benefits without overspending.
Therefore, Why Buying Local Indonesian Fish Is the Smartest Decision
When you choose Indonesian native fish like eel and mackerel, you gain three powerful advantages:
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Better Nutrition
Omega-3 levels that rival or exceed salmon. -
Better Value
High-quality protein at a significantly lower cost. -
Better Impact
Supporting local fisheries, sustainability, and food security.
In a world full of imported labels and marketing noise, the real strength lies in understanding what you buy—and why.
Just like in Tere Liye’s stories, wisdom often comes from simplicity.
Finally, Make the Healthy Choice Today
Health is not about trends.
It’s about decisions you repeat every day.
By choosing ikan sidat and ikan kembung, you are choosing:
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A sharper mind
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A healthier heart
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A smarter budget
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A sustainable future
So next time you shop for seafood, look beyond salmon.
Look closer. Look local. Look Indonesian.
Because sometimes, the best nutrition story is not imported—it’s homegrown.