Is a Filipino Sardines Brand Possibly a Secret to Health and Longevity?
A Filipino sardines brand has captured international attention after receiving rare and prestigious recognition from one of the world’s leading wellness organizations. This recognition sparks renewed global interest in the humble fish as a key to better health, and possibly longevity.
It all began with a 2023 article published by Harvard University, advocating the benefits of “eating down the seafood chain,” with sardines taking center stage. The institution underscored the exceptional health value of sardines, describing them as one of the most nutrient-dense and metabolically friendly seafood options available. Harvard Health noted that sardines are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein, yet contain virtually no carbohydrates. They’re also packed with essential nutrients, including vitamins B12 and D, calcium, selenium, phosphorus, iron, iodine, and Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10).
Moreover, as small, low-food-chain fish, sardines pose a minimal risk of mercury contamination, a growing concern with larger fish species. The full article from Harvard can be accessed here.
Inspired by the Harvard study, the Medical Wellness Association (MWA), a U.S.-based global organization of over 6,000 health, wellness, and medical professionals, conducted a more in-depth investigation. Their focus: to determine if all sardines are created equal, or if certain brands offer superior health benefits based on how they’re processed after being caught.
Their findings led them to the Philippines, where Mega Sardines stood out above the rest.
Unlike many sardine brands that lease fishing fleets and endure long delays from catch to processing, Mega Sardines owns and operates its own fleet. This allows for strict control over hygiene and freshness protocols at sea. The company boasts an unparalleled “catch-to-can” process that takes less than 12 hours, a stark contrast to the industry standard of several days.
This innovation, according to the MWA, plays a crucial role in preserving the natural nutrients of sardines. As a result, the organization awarded Mega Sardines a groundbreaking honor: the title of “Superfood.” This marks the first time in MWA’s 30-year history that a seafood product has received such recognition.
“Mega Sardines can play a vital role in helping consumers around the world battle metabolic and cardiovascular disease,” said Dr. Christopher Breuleux, President and Founder of the MWA. “It is truly a gift from nature for human health, and the processing is done with ultimate care and with an eye towards preserving freshness all the way to the dinner table. It is, indeed, a ‘Superfood’ everyone should increase their intake of.”
At the heart of this achievement is Mega Sardines founder William Tiu Lim, whose mission has always been to provide nutritious, affordable food options for Filipino families. For five decades, Tiu Lim has steered the company from a local sardine cannery to a global wellness brand.
“Today, Mega Sardines is no longer a fishing company, but a global wellness company. We want to help improve the wellness of the world’s consumers. This is a legacy and a mission worth fighting for,” said Tiu Lim, proudly holding the MWA certificate, an affirmation of his lifelong vision.
As consumers become more health-conscious and discerning about their food choices, sardines, especially those sourced and processed with care, are making a strong comeback on dinner plates worldwide.
So next time you’re planning a meal, don’t be surprised if the humble request, “Honey, please pass the sardines,” carries with it the promise of better health, and perhaps a longer life.
Photo caption: Mega Sardines top officials, Mega Prime Chairman William Tiu Lim (third from left), President Michelle Chan (second from left), and other officers join Medical Wellness Association founding board member Jim Lafferty during a photo op after recognizing Mega Sardines as a Superfood recently.
Roy Tomandao
Si Roy Tumandao ay kasalukuyang pangulo ng Camp Vicente Lim Press Corps. Nagsimula siya sa larangan ng media noong 1992 at aktibo bilang photo journalist at news correspondent para sa iba’t ibang tabloid. Broadcaster siya ng DZJV 1458 Radyo Calabarzon.
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- Roy Tomandao#molongui-disabled-link
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