What is this food?
Dried cod (salted/dried fish). It’s a protein-rich fish that’s been dried to last longer.
Why it matters to health
Cod provides lean protein to help build and maintain muscles and keep you full. It also has healthy fats in small amounts, but dried cod can be high in sodium (around 6050 mg per 100 g), and it has some saturated fat and cholesterol. With regular meals and snacks, this matters because high sodium can affect blood pressure over time, so portion and frequency help you enjoy it while keeping your overall diet balanced.
Healthier tips
- Portion: aim for a small serving (about 30–60 g cooked) as part of your 3 meals, not as the main food every day.
- Soak and rinse: soak dried cod in water, then rinse well to reduce salt before cooking.
- Pair with fiber-rich sides: serve with vegetables (like kangkong, pechay, or okra) and/or a small serving of brown rice or whole grains.
- Balance the plate: include a good source of carbs (rice/ugali) and lots of non-starchy veggies, so your meal is not too heavy on salty fish.
- Watch the frequency: if you eat it often, alternate with fresh fish, chicken, eggs, or tofu.
Enjoy it in moderation—no food is strictly bad when portions and balance are right for your day.
Common Filipino dishes
Bagoong cod or dried fish toppings, sinigang na dried fish, ginataang dried fish, dried fish with garlic and vinegar, pinakbet with dried fish, arroz caldo with flaked dried cod