What is this food?
Fish paste, “siganid” fry (fried fish paste). It’s a protein-rich fish-based viand usually served with rice and other sides.
Why it matters to health
This food helps because it provides protein (supports muscle and keeps you full). It also has healthy fish fats, but the label shows some saturated fat and high cholesterol. The bigger caution is sodium (about 2592 mg per 100 g), which can add up quickly if you eat it often or in large portions. So it’s best as part of a balanced plate—especially if you’re also having salty snacks or processed foods in the day.
Healthier tips
- Portion: aim for about 1/4 to 1/3 of your plate for the fish paste, then fill the rest with rice (or other carbs) and lots of vegetables.
- Balance the day: if you have this at lunch or dinner, choose lower-sodium snacks the rest of the day (e.g., fruit, plain yogurt, unsalted nuts).
- Pair with fiber: add vegetables (like kangkong, pechay, or mixed salad) to support better fullness and digestion.
- Watch frequency: enjoy it sometimes, not every day—especially if you’re monitoring blood pressure or heart health.
- Cooking tip: if possible, use less oil or shallow-fry instead of deep-fry to reduce extra fat.
Common Filipino dishes
Sinigang na isda, Tinapa (smoked fish), Fish embutido, Daing na bangus, Fish paste “siganid” fry, Paksiw na isda