What is the Thornback Ray?

The Thornback Ray (Raja clavata, otherwise known as the Thornback Skate) is a fish from the typically flat family of skates or rays. The breeds are present in all the seas, especially those in the temperate northern hemisphere. They are also found in the Mediterranean Sea, particularly in the Adriatic. Some species prefer brackish waters. The rays live lying on muddy and sandy bottoms, where they blend in covered by a thin layer of sand or mud.

 

What are the nutritional properties of the breed?

The thornback ray is a source of protein, minerals (phosphorus, potassium) and vitamin A.

 

In particular, 100 grams of race contain

  • 14.2g protein
  • 0.9 g fat
  • 0, 7 g carbohydrate
  • 68 Kcal

 

When should you not eat the thornback ray?

The breed may contain only small quantities of methylmercury: there is therefore no specific contraindications to its use.

 

Possible benefits of the breed

The meat of the breed is very lean, its consumption is found in low-calorie diets and of those who suffer from high cholesterol. It contains minerals such as potassium and phosphorus: the one helps to regulate blood pressure and may decrease the risk of recurrent kidney stones and the risk of weakening bones during aging; the other is important to the health of bones and teeth. The presence of vitamin A is essential for eyesight, for the development and strengthening of bones, and for the growth of teeth. Vitamin A also has antitumor properties.

 

Possible contraindications of the thornback ray

It is always advised to consume the race after it is cooked: heat fact annihilates any toxic substances, such as Anisakis, a widespread parasite. It is important to know that European legislation (EC Regulation 853/2004, on "Sale and administration of culinary preparations containing fishery products intended to be consumed raw or almost raw") obliges those who sell or administer fresh fish to be frozen at – 20 degrees at least 24 hours. Therefore, before you eat it raw, inquire if that has been done. At home however, it is advised to freeze the race for at least 96 hours at -18 ° C in a freezer at three or more stars, before consuming it raw.

 

Seasonality of the breed

It is fished all year round, but especially in the winter months.