ABSTRACT

The degree of deterioration of different species of fish marketed and consumed in most part of Eastern Nigeria was assessed by assaying the concentration of Malonaldehyde (a deleterious by product of lipid peroxidation) using acceptable Biochemical Method. Malonaldehyde. (MDA) was detected in all the species. of fish analyzed Fresh Titus, Panla and Mackerel contained 0.57, 0.50 and 1.48- 1.60mg/l00g IViDA respectively. Exposure of these products for about 12 hours resulted in the concentration of MDA being 4.98rng/100g. Smoked Titus and Mackerel contained 0.88-1.07 and 1.55mg/l00g respectively. Analysis of dried Mangala, Tilapia, Catfish and Bonga fish gave 0.75, 0.63, 0.48 and 0.35mg/l00g. Malonaldehyde has been classified as a toxic substance along with acetaldehyde and the result are discussed from toxicological point of view.