During our field trip to Phú Quý, the team from vetauphuquy.vn had the opportunity to directly experience many local products that are rarely seen in traditional markets or specialty stores. Among the most notable are pufferfish skin and fish maws.
Pufferfish Skin
Visitors may be surprised to see pufferfish skin being dried in coastal fishing villages across Phú Quý, but for the locals, this is an extremely valuable commodity for export.
While in Vietnam there are widespread warnings against processing or consuming pufferfish due to its toxicity, locals on Phú Quý Island note that pufferfish skin is safely exported because of its high value. It is often used in decorative handicrafts, the leather industry, and even reportedly in medicine — with rumors that it can be used to produce dissolvable surgical sutures.
Black-spotted porcupinefish, a type of pufferfish considered rare, can be found in several coastal regions but in very limited quantities. When caught, local fishermen often reserve them for personal consumption or to serve honored guests, which means even seaside restaurants might not have them available for sale.
Fish Maw on Phú Quý Island
In ancient times, fish maw was considered one of the “Eight Precious Dishes” offered to royal courts. These were eight luxurious and highly prized delicacies believed to provide excellent health benefits such as nourishing the blood, enhancing yin energy, strengthening the kidneys, and improving vitality.
Historically in Vietnam, the Eight Precious Dishes included: phoenix spring rolls, peacock sausage, rhinoceros skin, bear paws, deer tendons, orangutan lips, elephant foot meat, and bird’s nest. In modern times, the list has evolved to include bird’s nest, deer tendons, shark fin, abalone, sea cucumber, fish maw, scallops, and foie gras.
Fish maw is prized not only for its rarity but also for its nutritional value, benefiting all age groups. Rich in calcium, it supports bone development and brain health in children. For women, its abundant collagen content helps preserve youthfulness and improve skin radiance, making it smoother and fairer.
In addition, fish maw contains vitamin A and trace elements that aid digestion, help alleviate indigestion or constipation, and boost energy levels. It also enhances memory and can help relieve insomnia in the elderly.
