Sardine (Luar)

Sardine, locally known as Luar (لور) and scientifically named Sardinella longiceps, is one of the most nutrient-rich fish species in Pakistan’s marine ecosystem. With its high oil content, exceptional Omega-3 levels, and strong flavor, Luar has long been a favorite among coastal communities and health-conscious seafood consumers.

However, due to increased demand for Sardine (Luar), especially from Gwadar and the Makran Coast, the local availability of Luar has significantly dropped. It is now increasingly difficult to find fresh Luar for local consumption, as most of the harvest is processed and exported to international markets in frozen and canned form.

Sardine (Luar) has a strong, oily, and marine-forward flavor, with soft, flaky meat that cooks quickly. It has a pronounced fishy aroma, which is loved by traditional eaters but may be intense for new consumers. The meat is delicate and breaks easily, making it perfect for frying or cooking in bold, spicy gravies.

Taxonomy & Identification

English Name: Sardine, Indian Oil Sardine
Local Name (Urdu): Luar (لور)
Scientific Name: Sardinella longiceps
Family: Clupeidae
Order: Clupeiformes
Class: Actinopterygii
Phylum: Chordata

Indian Oil Sardine (Luar) is found in shallow, nutrient-rich coastal waters, especially near Gwadar, Pasni, and the Makran coastline. It thrives in warm waters and forms large seasonal shoals, often landed in bulk during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons.

Catching Method

At Wholesome Seafood, Indian Oil Sardine (Luar) is caught using fine-mesh purse seines and small gillnets, then immediately iced and cleaned for preservation. However, due to export prioritization, most catches are transported directly to freezing and canning facilities in Gwadar for shipment abroad.

Indian Oil Sardine (Luar) is a small, slender fish with a silver body, bluish back, and a large eye spot near the gills. It has many fine bones, making it less suitable for filleting. The flesh is oily and soft, with a shiny, rich texture.

Size

We offer Indian Oil Sardine (Luar) in whole sizes ranging from 50 to 70 g per fish. Due to its size and structure, it is typically sold in bulk by weight rather than as individual pieces.

Cleaning Preference

Indian Oil Sardine (Luar) is available whole or whole & gutted. It is not filleted or sliced due to its small size and delicate body. Most customers prefer it lightly cleaned and ready for deep frying or curry.

Indian Oil Sardine (Luar) is best deep-fried whole, cooked in spicy masala curries, or used in traditional coastal recipes with garlic and tamarind. Because of its strong aroma and high oil content, it pairs well with bold spices. Its bones soften during cooking, allowing for whole consumption.

Health Benefits

The Indian Oil Sardine, a nutritional treasure from our own Arabian Sea, is a powerful ally against inflammation. Packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA, these humble fish actively work to reduce chronic inflammation throughout the body. This natural benefit can help alleviate joint pain associated with arthritis and protect against various inflammatory conditions. Regular consumption also supports heart and brain health, making the local sardine an affordable superfood for overall wellness.

We typically think of inflammation as a result of an injury or disease. But diet also plays an important role in chronic inflammation.  This is in part because the foods we eat influence the types of bacteria that populate our gut and their chemical byproducts. While some foods encourage the growth of bacteria that stimulate inflammation, others promote the growth of bacteria that help suppress it. Read here to know which foods have anti-inflammatory properties and which can cause inflammation!

Looking for other high-oil, small-sized size and lower in the sea food chain fish? Explore:

White Sardine (Mithoo)
Shrimp Scad (Bakka)