'Healthy' jade perch could revive local businesses and open mainland market
It doesn't eat much, tastes good and is beneficial to the heart. Hong Kong's farmers believe they have finally hit on a wonder fish to help them beat growing cross-border competition.
The 'healthy' jade perch will hit Hong Kong's dining tables next week and is expected to challenge fish markets in Guangdong.
The perch was introduced from Australia two years ago as part of the government's programme to upgrade the aquaculture industry in the face of fierce competition of cheaper products from the mainland.
The fish, which is expected to hit the market by the middle of the month, is expected to be popular among diners because it has a softer texture than traditional fish cultured in ponds.
It also has a higher content of unsaturated fat and other substances that can help prevent heart disease and lower cholesterol levels.