Why is Bluefin Tuna Priced at a Record $3 Million?
Bluefin tuna not only stands out for its enormous size but also shocks with record prices reaching up to $3 million. What makes this fish so expensive? Let’s explore the key factors that contribute to the exceptional value of bluefin tuna.
1. What is Bluefin Tuna?
Bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) is one of the rarest and most expensive types of tuna in the world. Unlike more common tunas such as the albacore, bluefin tuna can grow to several hundred kilograms and has superior meat quality. It is the main ingredient in the premium sushi dish “Kuro Maguro” (fresh bluefin tuna), favored by renowned sushi restaurants.
2. Factors Determining the Price of Bluefin Tuna
- Origin of the Tuna
The price of bluefin tuna varies significantly depending on where the fish is caught. Tuna from the eastern coast of the U.S. costs around $20 – $30 per 0.45 kg ($500,000 – $750,000). However, bluefin tuna from Japan, especially from the Oma region, can reach up to $200 per 0.45 kg ($5 million). Experts consider Oma bluefin tuna to be the finest in the world. - Parts of the Tuna
Different parts of the bluefin tuna have varying values. Otoro, the fattiest part located under the belly and near the gills, is the most expensive. On the other hand, Akami, found in the middle of the fish’s body, is less expensive due to its lower fat content. These parts differ not only in price but also in flavor and meat quality.
- Auction Timing
The timing of the auction also significantly affects the price of bluefin tuna. Auctions held at the beginning of the year at Tokyo’s Tsukiji market often achieve record prices. In Japan, purchasing tuna at the start of the new year is believed to bring good luck, and prices for tuna are typically highest during this period.
3. The Auction and Processing of Bluefin Tuna
- Auctions in Japan
In Japan, bluefin tuna are auctioned at major fish markets like Tsukiji. Early-year auctions often see sky-high prices due to the special importance and luck associated with the first tuna of the year. In 2019, a bluefin tuna weighing 278 kg was sold for a record $3 million. - Processing and Transport
Bluefin tuna undergo a meticulous processing and transport procedure. In Japan, the fish is carefully processed and filleted to maintain the highest quality. These steps not only ensure quality but also increase the tuna’s value.
4. Why is Bluefin Tuna More Expensive than Other Tuna?
Bluefin tuna is not just expensive because of its enormous size but also due to its superior meat quality and complex processing. Bluefin tuna has a marbled texture with dense layers of fat, creating a flavor and richness unmatched by other tuna species. Compared to canned tuna, bluefin tuna is much more costly due to its rarity and exceptional meat quality.
5. Evaluating the Quality of Bluefin Tuna
The quality of bluefin tuna can be assessed by its Akami, Chutoro, and Otoro parts. Akami is the leanest meat, while Otoro is the fattiest and most expensive. Wild bluefin tuna, with its varied and cleaner diet compared to farmed tuna, further enhances its value.
The record price of bluefin tuna is due not only to its enormous size but also to its superb meat quality and intricate processing. Factors such as origin, meat parts, and auction timing all play crucial roles in determining the price. With its rarity and outstanding quality, bluefin tuna deserves its title as the most expensive fish in the world.
