Unhealthy diets are a leading global health risk, particularly in Nordic countries where non-communicable nutrition-related diseases and micronutrient deficiencies remain prevalent despite efforts to improve food systems. Aquatic foods, including fish, offer a significant source of animal protein and essential micronutrients globally. While Norway benefits from a safe and sufficient food supply, its self-sufficiency is only 45% (80% from fish). The study focuses on the under-researched role of small-scale fisheries (SSF) in national food and nutrition security (FNS). SSF, while diverse in fishing methods, are often overlooked despite their potential economic and nutritional contributions. A shift towards aquatic foods could improve diets and mitigate climate change. This study aims to quantify Norwegian SSF catches, compare them to recommended dietary intakes (RDIs), and assess their contribution to national FNS.

The introduction cites several studies highlighting micronutrient deficiencies in the Nordic region (vitamins D and B12, selenium, iodine). It emphasizes the global significance of aquatic foods in protein provision and micronutrient delivery. The potential of fish to contribute to FNS is recognized as under-researched compared to other food groups. Previous research has explored the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on global fisheries and seafood supply chains, with varying effects depending on location and type of seafood product. The introduction points to the lack of a universal definition of SSF across countries, despite the recognition of modern SSFs' economic efficiency.

This study utilizes data from the Illuminating Hidden Harvests (IHH) project, a collaborative effort led by the FAO, Duke University, and WorldFish. The Norwegian case study within IHH extracted data from official Norwegian sources to estimate key indicators for SSF. The Norwegian SSF fleet is defined as commercial vessels under 15 meters operating within 12 nautical miles. Data sources include the Norwegian Directorate of Fisheries, the Institute of Marine Research, and relevant institutional websites. The study uses the open access Seafood data food composition database and supplementary data for iodine content. The dietary survey, NORKOST 3, provided data on seafood intake among Norwegian adults. Calculations involve converting catch data to edible portions, multiplying by nutrient content, and comparing to RDIs for a population of 5 million. The study addresses potential data gaps such as missing conversion factors for some species and low sample sizes for certain nutrients. The study also notes that catch data includes landings, not just catches, as some fish may be processed before landing.

The study found that the average annual SSF catch (2013–2017) was 233,392 tons, representing 10.4% of the total Norwegian catch (SSF + LSF) by volume and 8.6% by value. Cod is the most important species in the SSF fishery. The SSF catch contains significant amounts of key nutrients: approximately 70%, 80%, and 96% of the recommended yearly intake per person for iodine, DHA, and vitamin B12, respectively, for a population of 5 million. While herring and mackerel are richer in DHA and vitamin D3, cod's high volume makes it a significant contributor. The average adult seafood intake was 67 g/day, with a median of 30 g/day and significant skewing in consumption (35% report zero intake). When considering only those with non-zero seafood intake, the mean intake increases to 104 g/day (median 83 g/day). The study also presents data on contaminants such as mercury, dioxins, and dl-PCBs, concluding that the benefits of fish consumption outweigh the risks, even when considering cod liver's high contaminant levels, within recommended intake ranges. The SSF's low carbon footprint compared to large-scale fisheries is also noted.

The findings demonstrate the significant contribution of Norwegian SSF to national FNS. The accessibility of these resources, particularly in times of crisis, underscores their importance. Historical data shows fish's potential role in mitigating food shortages. The study emphasizes that the current SSF catch could potentially cover 20% of the Norwegian population's energy needs if fully utilized for local consumption. The study also highlights the potential of developing semi-industrialized seafood dishes to increase consumption and address nutritional needs. The variation in nutrient content across individual fish species presents a challenge for food composition data but emphasizes the importance of wider data collection.

Norwegian small-scale fisheries offer a substantial contribution to food and nutrition security, providing significant amounts of essential micronutrients. While current consumption is lower than recommended, the potential exists to increase intake through policy changes that promote seafood in dietary guidelines and address consumption patterns. Further research is needed on seafood consumption, nutrient data for under-represented species, and optimal methods for dietary surveys. Prioritizing sustainable seafood in food systems is crucial for national food security and health.

The study acknowledges limitations, including the lack of conversion factors for some species (e.g., shrimp and crab), missing analytical data for key nutrients in some species (e.g., haddock), and relatively low sample sizes for certain nutrients. The reliance on two 24-h dietary recalls in NORKOST 3 might not accurately capture the diverse seafood consumption patterns. The study did not account for by-products, which could further increase nutrient contributions. More targeted dietary surveys are needed to better understand seafood consumption.