What Is the Tamil Name for Tuna Fish?

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As one of the most popular fish varieties across the world, tuna fish is commonly used in Asian cuisines as well as on other continents. Tuna species are usually found in subtropical waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. As these fish varieties are distributed to different parts of the world, they are now considered endangered species because of overfishing. Given its popularity, you might wonder how this tuna fish is called in other places like Tamil Nadu. What is the Tamil name for tuna fish? What is it known for?

In Tamil, tuna fish is known as சூரை மீன் or soorai meen. Tamil is the language used in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Different types of soorai meen include bluefin tuna, yellowfin tuna, and bullet tuna, among others. The life of tuna fish ranges from three to five years, while some are known to have lived for over two decades. In this article, we will give you an overview of soorai meen and its uses and benefits as well as information about other known fishes in Tamil Nadu.

Understanding Tuna Fish

Tuna is a saltwater fish that belongs to the mackerel group or Scombridae family. Within this family, tuna belongs to a tribe known as Thunnini. This Thunnini tribe consists of 15 tuna species with varying sizes from one foot to 15 feet. One common characteristic of these tuna species is being nomadic, which means they keep migrating. Because of mating and changing seasons, they move thousands of miles.

Although each culture has preferences, tuna fish makes for great dishes like steaks, salads, and burgers. However, According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, many tuna varieties are fully exploited. There is no more room for fishery expansion. Some tuna varieties are even overexploited, which poses the risk of stock collapse.

The Health Benefits of Tuna Fish

A good source of vitamins and minerals, tuna fish has an impressive nutritional value. It contains antioxidants and protein without too much fat or sodium. It is also rich in phosphorus, iron, magnesium, potassium, and selenium. Below are the different benefits of tuna fish or soorai meen.

Promotes Healthy Heart Functions

One of the main health benefits attributed to tuna fish is promoting heart health. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which helps reduce omega-6 fatty acids and bad cholesterol in the arteries and blood vessels. Thus, it may help manage coronary heart diseases. A 2002 study from the American Medical Association showed that women who ate higher amounts of fish, including tuna fish, and omega-3 fatty acids may experience a lower risk of coronary heart disease.    

Strengthens the Immune System

Tuna is also abundant in vitamin C, zinc, and manganese, which are good antioxidants. These antioxidants help fight against free radicals, the by-product of cellular metabolism that can cause chronic diseases. However, what makes tuna fish an immune system-boosting food is selenium. 

Tuna fish or soorai meen is full of minerals that, in a single serving, satisfies about 200% of the daily requirement. Thus, tuna fish can help boost your immune system.

Lowers Blood Pressure

Tuna fish is full of potassium, a mineral that helps lower blood pressure. It is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which produces anti-inflammatory effects, thus helping lower blood pressure. A decrease in blood pressure means a lower risk of different heart-related issues like heart attacks, clogged arteries, strokes, etc. 

Facilitates Weight Loss

Weight gain and obesity continue to be one of the biggest health issues worldwide. Tuna fish helps promote weight loss, as it is low in calories and fats. However, the fish is packed with protein. Its omega-3 fatty acids may also stimulate leptin, a hormone that controls your body’s food intake and your desire to eat more. Thus, it helps you avoid overeating and ensures that your body only takes in what it needs.

Provides Eye Care

Given that tuna fish or soorai meen is abundant in omega-3 fatty acids, it can be a great option to prevent eye problems. A 2007 study on the effects of omega-3 fatty acids showed that they protect against the development of retinopathy, the deterioration of the retina. Retinal disease is one of the main causes of blindness in older adults. 

Which Is the Tastiest Fish in Tamil Nadu?

Now that you know more about tuna fish and why it’s a favorite dish in different parts of the world, we’ll see which fish is the tastiest in Tamil Nadu. Included in the list is Vanjaram. You may be wondering: what is Vanjaram fish called in English? It’s seerfish!

This fish variety is often used for fish curry and fish fry preparations. They’re available as cubes, fish fingers, bread slices, thin slices, or as fillets. Vanjaram is preferred for making fish curry and fish fry preparations.

Another tasty fish in Tamil Nadu is Indian Salmon or kala meen in Tamil. This fish variety is full of omega-3 fatty acids and protein. It is also a good source of iron, zinc, calcium, and vitamins A, B, and D. One famous dish from this fish variety is Indian salmon curry. 

What Is the Tamil Name for Tuna Fish? Final Thoughts

In Tamil, tuna fish is known as soorai meen. It is one of the most famous fish varieties worldwide. On top of that, it has enormous health benefits, like promoting heart health, boosting your immune system, and even supporting weight loss. Check out our page to learn more interesting facts about your favorite fish varieties.