The aquaponic system includes combined production of fish and plants. In the present study, the quality of tilapia and plant products produced in the aquaponic have been investigated. Results of sensory evaluation of the cooked fillet showed high score for sensory parameters. In all plant products, the amount of nitrite and nitrate were considerably lower than permissible limit of consumption. The amount of protein and iron in plant products were high, however calcium and potassium were a few lower than the desired amount.
The aquaponic system includes combined production of fish and plants. in which the wastes and metabolites produced by farmed fish are removed from the environment through nitration and absorbed by plants. The plants and fish produced in this system are healthy due to the absence of fertilizers and pesticides. In the present study, the quality of tilapia and plant products produced in the aquaponic system including mint, peppermint, pennyroyal, green basil, purple basil, fodder beet, Swiss chard, various cultivars of lettuce, watercress, celery, and tomato have been investigated. Results of sensory evaluation of the cooked fillet showed high score for sensory parameters. For the purpose of producing better quality farmed fish, it is recommended to use high quality feed especially in the last month of breeding. In all plant products, the amount of nitrite and nitrate were considerably lower than permissible limit of consumption. Peppermint, fodder beet, Swiss chard, watercress and celery had the lowest proline content, while peppermint, fodder beet, Swiss chard were also richer in chlorophyll. Higher levels of proline were obtained in lettuce and basil, indicating more severe environmental stress conditions for them. The amount of protein and iron in plant products were high, however calcium and potassium were a few lower than the desired amount. Considering the health of the products of the aquaponic system and its applicability in different scales, it is a suitable option for the production of fish and plants.