Seafood specialist Young's has launched a new product range featuring a species that will be unfamilar to most pubs - pangasius, or basa as it is often known in the UK.
The three products in the range are unique to Young's and amongst the first of their kind to be launched into the foodservice arena.
Basa, an ivory white, fleshy freshwater fish, is sourced from a well managed, sustainable fishery. It has a similar texture to cod and haddock and is farmed and processed on the Mekong Delta in Vietnam. The species was first farmed ten years ago and stocks are expected to grow substantially by 2010.
The first in the trio of products is Young's breaded basa goujons. Made from 100 per cent fish fillet and coated in a light and crispy fresh breadcrumb, the goujons are hand prepared and consistent in size and shape.
Young's has also introduced a 60g basa portion, which can be poached, grilled or oven-baked. Basa portions are ideal for children's meals.
Thirdly, Young's natural basa fillet, in 120g to 170g portions, is a premium product which can be served as a natural fillet, with a sauce or offered breaded or battered.
Peter Milsted, director of foodservice at Young's Seafood said: "The launch of our new basa range strengthens our existing offering and brings caterers an even greater option for their menus."
As part of its 'Fish for Life' sustainability initiative, Young's has made a pledge to no longer purchase any Atlantic cod from the North Sea. Milsted added: "Basa has been introduced to meet consumer demand for fish as a healthy out of home alternative, as stocks of consumer favourites including cod and haddock continue to be in short supply as demand is ever increasing."