Why One Fish Organ Is Selling For Hundreds Of Dollars A Pound

Whether you’ve ever tried it before or not, you probably know that caviar is a particularly expensive delicacy. But fish eggs aren’t the only things that come out of the sea that can fetch a pretty penny.

What is fish maw?

Also known as a “swim bladder,” fish maw is an internal organ that is dried and sold as a food product primarily in China. Along with abalone, sea cucumber, and shark fin, this item is seen in Cantonese culture as one of the so-called “four treasures.”

And aside from its apparently unique and delicious taste, there are a few reasons that it can sell for $400 or more per pound.

• It is seen as a symbol of wealth.
• Many folks save it as an investment.
• Some say it has medicinal properties.

As for that final point, the fiber and collagen contained in fish maw have contributed to the belief that it provides improved digestion, healthier skin, and a more robust immune system. Swim bladders are also commonly prescribed for people experiencing pain related to surgery or after giving birth.

Justifying the cost

Whether they buy it as a gift, a celebratory meal, or in hopes that it will increase in value, Chinese citizens have proven that they’re willing to pay big bucks for fish maw.

But one of the reasons the value continues to increase is directly related to its popularity. Fisheries have depleted the supply across much of Asia, which has led to a rise in imports from other countries. Uganda has become a hotbed of swim bladder procurement, particularly in Lake Victoria where the competition is fierce among those trying to catch as many perch as possible and sell the fish maw to an eagerly awaiting Chinese market.

Chris Agee October 6th, 2023

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