100% fish in the Great lakes region Lake Whitefish (Coregonus clupeaformis) full utilization

This report provides chemical analysis of fillets and rest raw material (heads, bones/frame and skin) from Lake Whitefish (Coregonus clupeaformis) harvested in 3 lakes (Michigan, Huron and Superior) from the Great Lakes region. Identification of alternative utilizations with higher value is described. This report was contracted by Sjávarklasinn as a part of a larger consultancy work on utilization alternatives from Lake Whitefish from the Great Lakes.

The utilization alternatives identified for those rest raw materials included transformation of heads into fish meal and fish oil or processed as silage or fish protein hydrolysate and isolates. The skins were shown as a good candidate for collagen/gelatine production (the proof of concept shown a good collagen quality). The bones were identified as good candidates for mineral powder or health supplement. However, those transformations include high investments cost, which would be of interest only if a sufficient amount of raw material is provided. 

This report is to be considered as an initial identification of utilization alternatives. Further analysis is needed to determine the applicability of the alternatives identified.