Warning: Graphic Content

Fish maw — the swim bladder of a fish — is one of the most expensive driedseafood products in the world. A Chinese delicacy, it can fetch $450 to $1,000 per kilogram. It’s often viewed as a symbol of wealth and prosperity, and it's given out as gifts at important events and stockpiled as a speculative investment. It’s one of the “four treasures” of Cantonese cuisine, along with abalone, sea cucumber, and shark fin. But the main reason fish maw is so desired is its supposed medical value. Because of its high levels of collagen and fiber, it's believed to promote healthy skin, boost the immune system, and aid digestion. Fish maw is also often recommended in China for postpartum recovery and to reduce postsurgery pain. But because of overfishing in East Asia, China now imports the majority of its bladders from other countries, like Uganda. In Uganda, fishers compete for Nile perch in Lake Victoria and ship them to China for extremely high prices.

MORE SO EXPENSIVE:
Why Queen Elizabeth Loved These $150 Crystal Glasses
   • Why Waterford Crystal Master Craftsme...  
This Ancient Paper Can Last 1000 Years. So Why Is It Disappearing?
   • This Ancient Paper Can Last 1000 Year...  
11 Of The Most Expensive Items Made In The USA
   • 11 Of The Most Expensive Items Made I...  



#china #fishmaw #insiderbusiness

Business Insider tells you all you need to know about business, finance, tech, retail, and more.

Visit our homepage for the top stories of the day: https://www.businessinsider.com
Insider Business on Facebook:   / businessinsider  
Insider Business on Instagram:   / insiderbusiness  
Insider Business on Twitter:   / businessinsider  
Insider Business on Snapchat:   / 5319643143  
Insider Business on TikTok:   / businessinsider  

How Chinese Demand For Fish Maw (Swim Bladder) Fuels A $52 Million Industry In Uganda