Seasonal changes in the chemical and lipid composition of fillets of the Southwest Atlantic hake (Merluccius hubbsi)

The pH, chemical and lipid composition of fillets of the Southwest Atlantic hake (Merluccius hubbsi) was studied over the course of a year. Mean values for the chemical composition were (wet basis): total non-volatile nitrogen, 2.87%; water, 79.5%; lipids, 1.5%; ash, 1.20%. Water and lipid content were linearly related (P < 0.05). Seasonal changes in the chemical composition were related to the energetic status of the hake, as assessed through the condition factor values. Lipid classes showed seasonal changes. Sterol content varied between 65 and 275 mg% (wet basis). Mean values for eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids were 0.09 and 0.35 g% (wet basis). Results are compared to those reported for other hake species.