Curry fish head is a healthy dish due to its high nutritional value of rich source of protein and calcium

Health & Fitness
25 Apr 2026 • 12:00 PM MYT
Zulkifly Baharom
Zulkifly Baharom

An HR practitioner, Sejahtera Leadership Coach & Gusi Peace Prize Laureate.

Image from: Curry fish head is a healthy dish due to its high nutritional value of rich source of protein and calcium
Dr. Zul at the entrance of fish head curry res. Image credit: Zulkifly Baharom

Eating fish head is highly nutritious, offering a concentrated source of Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA), collagen, and minerals like calcium, iron, and zinc. It supports brain health, improves cardiovascular function, strengthen teeth & enhances skin elasticity, while serving as a sustainable, cost-effective, and waste-reducing culinary choice. Fish heads are used in soups and stews, providing a rich, tender, and nutritious meal, often combined with spices like ginger or garlic. “We must ensure that these byproducts are not wasted. Fish bones, brains, cartilage and fat are nutritious, containing extra-high levels of vitamin A," Audun Lem, Chief of United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization's (FAO) products, trade and marketing branch, said in a statement. (www.fao.org>audun-lem-on-fish-heads<)

Image from: Curry fish head is a healthy dish due to its high nutritional value of rich source of protein and calcium
Fish head curry is famous primarily for being a symbol of culinary fusion between traditional Indian, Chinese & Malay recipes originated in Singapore, has become an iconic staple in the region. Pix: Jann

For the amazing health benefits, it is recommended to consume fish heads along with fish meat to ensure a balanced intake of nutrients. Fish heads are rich in DHA and EPA, which are essential for cleaning blood vessels, reducing cholesterol, and promoting cognitive health, with higher concentrations than in fish meat. The DHA found in the brain and eyes of fish is essential for human brain development, improved memory & improved vision. (www.npr.org)

Image from: Curry fish head is a healthy dish due to its high nutritional value of rich source of protein and calcium
In their family lunch conversations, (L-R) Jann, Faiz, Zarina & Dr. Zul, resolved that “The future health impact of moderately consuming fish head curry is a significant balance of nutritional gains.” Pix: ZK

My family & I love eating fish head curry and one of our favorite outlets is the famous ZK Restaurant, at Jalan Kampung Attap Kuala Lumpur. My children who grown-up at Federal Hill since mid-1980s and they enjoyed eating fish head curry when ZK was just a stall under a big tree. Now the owner Zabar, has brought two shop lots beside the stall as specializing in fish head curry, fried crispy chicken, vegetables and ‘ulam bawang cabai’ (onion & chili salad).

Initially, we did not realized the rich connective tissue, fish heads (specially cheeks & eyes) provide collagen, which is absorbed up to 1.5 more efficiently than other sources, promoting healthier skin and joint health. They are a significant source of calcium, iron, zinc, phosphorus & vitamins A, D, B2 and B12.

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