Milkfish Waste into Premium Nuggets – In an inspiring display of innovation and environmental consciousness, a junior high school student from Surabaya, Muhammad Faiq Dzaki (15), has successfully transformed discarded milkfish waste into high-value, premium nuggets. This remarkable achievement not only addresses the issue of fish processing byproducts but also showcases the potential of young minds to create sustainable solutions.

Faiq, a student at SMPN 1 Surabaya, has developed a unique process to convert the often-discarded parts of milkfish, such as bones and skin, into nutritious and palatable nuggets. This innovative approach tackles the significant problem of food waste generated by the aquaculture industry, particularly in regions where milkfish is a staple.

The process involves carefully cleaning and processing the milkfish waste to extract valuable proteins and minerals. Through a series of treatments, including boiling, grinding, and the addition of tapioca flour, eggs, and spices like garlic and pepper, Faiq has managed to create nuggets with a texture and flavor that appeal to consumers. The resulting product is not only a sustainable alternative but also potentially richer in calcium compared to traditional chicken nuggets due to the inclusion of the finely ground bones.

This groundbreaking project, titled “Fish Bone Crackers and Milkfish Skin Nuggets,” has garnered attention at local science fairs, including the East Java Provincial Science Project Olympiad (OSPEJ), where it secured a silver medal in the environmental science category. Faiq’s ingenuity and commitment to sustainability have been widely praised. Judges lauded the project’s potential to reduce environmental impact, create economic value from waste, and provide a healthy food option.

The implications of this innovation are significant. If scaled up, this technology could provide a sustainable solution for managing milkfish waste, reducing landfill burden, and creating a new source of income for fish farmers and processors. Furthermore, the premium nuggets offer a nutritious alternative for consumers, potentially contributing to healthier diets with added calcium.