Selenium-Enriched Diets in Farmed Fish: Effects on Oxidative Stress, Muscle Composition, and Human Health Benefits: A Review

Abstract

Selenium (Se) is a critical micro-element that plays important roles in antioxidant capacity, growth and metabolism in aquaculture species here in after. Supplementation of selenium in diet has gotten a lot of attentions in recent years because it not only secures the healthy condition of fish and quality of meet but also provides more co-benefits for human consumers. Here, we subsequently compile a systematic interference of dietary selenium supplementation on the key biochemical functions of selenium in fish nutrition, covering physiological roles in oxidative stress, protein metabolism, lipid metabolism, and sensory attributes of fish flesh. Abstract The present paper summarizes the evidence provided in research papers in the last five years (2020–2024) with an expanded and voluntary criterion leading to effectively proofed experimental data within the field of the effects of dietary selenium supplementation (i.e., particularly accompanied mostly by organic and nano form) in enhancing activities of antioxidant enzymes with the consequent lowering of LPO in fish muscle, together with improvement of oxidative stability and sensory properties as well as shelf-life of fish fillet over control value. Also, the human bioavailability of Se from Se-rich fish flesh is fairly well defined as well, with potential protective effects shown against cardiovascular disease, cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Nevertheless, future investigations should be needed to eliminate the uncertainties related to the optimum dietary specifications, chronic safety of nano-selenium, beneficial dose and synergistic role of elements, and clinical substantiation of health claims. The evidential role of the selenized aquafeeds for sustainable aquaculture and human health could, however, be preserved and tha gaps overcome in the future.