Broadbill swordfish
Broadbill swordfish
X
Location
Swordfish roam the temperate, subtropical and tropical seas worldwide. They are present in New Zealand waters year-round in the north and south to Foveaux Strait in the summer months.
Swordfish live close to the seabed at around 500 to 800 metres during the day. They swim up to the surface at night – when they are caught.
Family
Swordfish are members of the Xiphiidae family (swordfish).
Sustainability
Swordfish are a highly migratory species. Those found in the New Zealand Exclusive Economic Zone are part of a much larger southwest and south-central Pacific stock. Swordfish were introduced into the Quota Management System in 2004; however, their management throughout the western and central Pacific Ocean is the responsibility of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission. This regional group has employed management measures such as restricting the number of charter fleet vessels and imposing size limits on the catch in addition to the catch limit in NZ waters.
Nutrition
To quality for a 'good source' claim the food must contain at least 25% of the RDI.
The Recommended Dietary Intake (RDI) is considered to be the average daily dietary intake level that is sufficient to meet the nutrient requirements of nearly all (97–98 per cent) healthy individuals in a particular life stage and gender group.
Phosphorus is necessary for normal teeth, bone and cell membrane structure and for energy metabolism
Selenium is necessary for normal immune system function and for the production of thyroid hormones and it contributes to the maintenance of hair and nails
Vitamin B12 is necessary for normal neurological function and it contributes to blood formation, energy metabolism and to the growth and development in children
Vitamin D is necessary for normal bone structure and the utilisation of calcium and phosphorus and it contributes to the maintenance of normal teeth
To quality for a 'source' claim the food must contain at least 10% of the RDI.
The Recommended Dietary Intake (RDI) is considered to be the average daily dietary intake level that is sufficient to meet the nutrient requirements of nearly all (97–98 per cent) healthy individuals in a particular life stage and gender group.
Iodine is necessary for the production of thyroid hormones, for normal neurological function and for normal energy metabolism, and it contributes to the growth and development in children
Iron is necessary for the transport oxygen, for normal immune system function and for normal neurological development in the foetus, and it contributes to energy production and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue
Potassium is necessary for water and electrolyte balance, it contributes to the functioning of the nervous system and normal muscle function; and to the normal growth and development of children
Vitamin A is necessary for normal vision and the structure and function of skin and mucous membranes
Niacin (vitamin B3) is necessary for the release of energy from food and for the normal structure and function of skin and mucous membranes, and contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue
Zinc is necessary for normal immune system function, contributes to normal skin structure and the healing of wounds, the maintenance of bones, hair and nails
Seafood is a highly nutritious food and is a great source of protein
Protein is necessary for tissue building and repair, normal growth and development of bone in children and adolescents aged 4 years and over, and contributes to growth and maintenance of muscle mass
Omega 3 is a group of fatty acids that contribute to heart health
Tips
Broadbill swordfish has a firm, meaty texture with a high oil content. Its flesh can vary from moist ivory to pink and has a slightly sweet flavour. Bake; bbq; casserole; sushi/raw; marinate; microwave; smoke; or fry.
Buying & Storage Tips
Broadbill swordfish is available whole, in steaks and fillets.When buying fresh whole broadbill swordfish, always check the...
EYES: Bright and clear cornea, shiny black pupil
GILLS: Rosy pink pastel coloured gills
SKIN: Bright, with a luminous sheen
When buying steaks or fillets, always check the...
FLESH: pinkish, semi-transparent and glossy
If the fish looks sticky or mushy then it is not fresh.
