Niacin Content in Norwegian Salmon
Norwegian salmon contains approximately 5.75 mg of niacin (vitamin B3) per 100g serving, making it a good dietary source of this essential nutrient. 1
Niacin in Salmon Compared to Other Fish
Norwegian salmon ranks among the better fish sources of niacin, though not the highest:
- Smoked butterfish: 9.03 mg/100g
- Smoked mackerel: 8.90 mg/100g
- Frozen butterfish: 8.05 mg/100g
- Norwegian salmon: 5.75 mg/100g 1
Nutritional Significance
A 100g serving of Norwegian salmon provides:
- For men (RDA 16 mg/day): Approximately 36% of daily niacin needs
- For women (RDA 14 mg/day): Approximately 41% of daily niacin needs 2, 3
This makes Norwegian salmon a significant contributor to meeting daily niacin requirements through diet alone.
Niacin Requirements and Sources
The recommended daily intake of niacin varies by age and gender:
- Men over 14 years: 16 mg/day
- Women over 14 years: 14 mg/day
- Pregnant women: 18 mg/day
- Lactating women: 16 mg/day 2, 3
Niacin is found in various food sources, with red fish like salmon and tuna being specifically mentioned as good sources 2. Other rich sources include meat, poultry, nuts, legumes, and whole grains 3.
Health Benefits of Salmon Beyond Niacin
Norwegian salmon is also valuable for its:
- Long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC n-3 PUFAs), which have cardiovascular benefits 2
- High-quality protein
- Other vitamins and minerals
The American Heart Association recommends consuming at least 1-2 fish servings (3.5 oz per serving) per week, preferably oily fish like salmon, to obtain cardiovascular benefits 2.
Practical Considerations
- Cooking and processing methods may affect niacin content, with some water-soluble vitamins being degraded or leached out during smoking or freezing 1
- Consuming a variety of fish species can help ensure adequate intake of niacin and other nutrients
- Norwegian salmon can be part of a balanced diet that meets niacin requirements without the need for supplementation in most healthy individuals
Norwegian salmon represents an excellent food choice that provides significant niacin along with other valuable nutrients in a single serving.