Nutrient-rich seafood like Tilapia is high in protein, low in calories, fat and carbohydrates and is also a good source of vitamin B-12, niacin, selenium, phosphorous and magnesium. It also contains a high-quality protein, Omega-3, that includes all the amino acids essential for human health. The Omega-3 content in seafood helps prevent cardiovascular disease and inflammatory disorders as well as mental and emotional issues. Seafood consumption is also an important contributor to the health of mothers and babies, to eye health and to preventing memory loss.
However, Americans who struggle with food insecurity often have a hard time accessing healthy seafood, even if they use a food bank. Of the four billion pounds of food distributed through the Feeding America network, less than 2% is nutrient-dense animal-based protein, and seafood makes up only a tiny fraction of that percentage. As Jim Harmon, Executive Director of SeaShare, states, “Despite the incredible resources and opportunities that exist in America, hunger continues to grow.”
While the health benefits that seafood provides are important for everyone, it’s especially crucial for those who don’t have the same access to other healthy foods as most Americans do. Healthy seafood can help make up for the lack of nutrients that 79% of food-insecure households face as a result of purchasing cheap, low quality foods.
How You Can Help
Throughout the month of June, SeaShare is partnering with Regal Springs in their mission to bring healthy seafood to food banks across the country. All you have to do is follow Regal Springs on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram. For every new follower, the company will donate 10 servings of seafood to SeaShare. Regal Springs plans to donate a whopping total of 56,000 servings of nutrient-rich seafood to food banks in the U.S, so help them help others by following Regal Springs online. It’s an easy way to give back and share healthy fish with those who are less fortunate.
For Harmon, initiatives like these are not just charity, but a necessity. “Our seafood industry has the resources, the expertise and generosity to make significant contributions to fill the hunger needs of many Americans,” he says. “Whether you have seafood, services, or financial support to offer, everyone has something to give. Together, we serve more seafood to more people.”
SeaShare’s goal isn’t just to feed people—it’s to feed people the high-quality food we all deserve. By partnering with SeaShare, Regal Springs is helping provide healthy seafood to thousands of families in need across America, and you can do your part with just a couple of clicks.
Photos: MauMar70 / Shutterstock.com, SeaShare, Regal Springs/ Twin Design / Shutterstock.com
