While we may try our best to eat a balanced, healthy diet (most of the time) we’re all aware of the fact that certain food groups tend to get ignored a lot more than they should! So as summer comes to an end, and students return to school and college, our routines can go askew, as families are busier than ever.
Two portions of fish per week are what we should all be aiming to eat, and that’s why the Donegal Catch frozen fish range is so perfect. It saves time as it cuts out a lot of food preparation, it helps to reduce food waste and in turn, saves money as no food is thrown out – a win-win for all the family!
Donegal Catch works closely with Irish fish suppliers and supports local communities to bring great tasting fish such as haddock, whiting and hake to Irish households across the country. The company procures 100% of its Irish haddock and whiting from Irish co-ops and fishermen. This ensures Donegal Catch brings consumers responsibly caught Irish fish, which is fully traceable back to the boat.
Freezer essentials from the Donegal Catch range for the busy school months ahead are available now in supermarkets nationwide;
Donegal Catch Breaded Whiting – RRP €5.50 x 4 Fillets
Donegal Catch Breaded Whiting Fillets are made with 100% Irish whiting, responsibly caught in Irish waters and produced in Ireland. Whiting is a mild flavoured fish, with a firm texture and delicate flavour. Conveniently prepared, just pop them in the oven from frozen for a tasty family meal. The Donegal Catch breaded range is free from artificial colours, preservatives and flavours.
Donegal Catch Breaded Haddock – RRP €5.50 x 4 Fillets
Donegal Catch Breaded Haddock Fillets are made with 100% Irish haddock, responsibly caught in Irish waters and produced in Ireland. Haddock has a sweeter and fuller flavour than other white fish and is naturally high in protein. Cook from frozen for a deliciously simple family meal.
Donegal Catch Natural Haddock – RRP €4.50 x 2 Fillets
Donegal Catch Natural Haddock Fillets are made with 100% Irish haddock, responsibly caught in Irish waters and produced in Ireland. Natural haddock fillets can be cooked directly from frozen, with no need to defrost and are high in omega 3, vitamin B12, containing an average of 15g protein per fillet.
Donegal Catch Battered Salt & Vinegar Irish Haddock Bites – RRP €5 per 270g
The Donegal Catch Salt & Vinegar Irish Haddock Bites are made with 100% Irish haddock fillets and coated in a crispy salt & vinegar flavoured batter, to make the perfect taste combination for an authentic ‘chip shop’ flavour! These bites are perfect for a quick and simple dinner or a snacking option for sharing!. A source of protein, the Donegal Catch Salt & Vinegar Irish Haddock Bites are free from artificial colours, preservatives and flavours.
Nutritional benefits of fish and tips for the whole family:
Fish has so many great nutritional benefits. It’s a fantastic source of protein, typically low in fat, and by consuming a variety of species, it will provide many different vitamins and minerals, each offering wide ranging health benefits.
1. Protein - Fish provides protein, which helps maintain and grow muscle and bone tissues, especially in younger children.
2. Vitamin D - Fish can provide vitamin D which is important for our bones and teeth as well as our immune system. Vitamin D is known as the “sunshine vitamin” as our bodies make it when sunlight hits our skin.
3. Iodine - Fish provides iodine which contributes to the normal growth of children. Fish and dairy are the main sources of iodine in Irish diets.
4. Omega 3 - Fish, particularly oily fish, provides omega 3 fats which are required for the normal function of the heart.
5. Vitamin B12 – This vitamin contributes to normal psychological immune function, and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
6. How many portions of fish should we eat per week? - Recommendations set out by Bord Bia and the Irish Heart Foundation, suggest we should aim to eat 2 portions of fish per week, with one portion being oily fish such as salmon. Fish is a wonderfully nutritious food with many nutrients important for reaching full health.
7. At what age can I start feeding my toddler fish? - Fish is suitable at weaning stage. Make sure you cook fish thoroughly and watch out for bones. You can start with pureeing the fish or use baby led weaning, giving small pieces that babies are able for at that time.
8. What is the best type of fish for my kids? - A variety of fish is best. Fish can be divided into 3 categories, white fish e.g. haddock or whiting, oily fish e.g. salmon and shellfish e.g. prawns. Each category provides different types of nutrients so it's best to get a good variety.
Click here for delicious back to school recipes or visit www.donegalcatch.ie/recipes/ for more inspiration.
Slán go fóill.