Sterlet Caviar

Species:
Acipenser ruthenus (Sterlet sturgeon)

 

Originates from Area:
Native to rivers feeding into the Caspian, Black, and Azov Seas; now commonly farmed in Europe (Germany, France, Italy) and parts of Asia

Key Characteristics:

Colour:

Pale grey to golden-brown; may appear greenish or olive depending on maturity and diet

Texture:

Firm and smooth; slightly grainier than Beluga, but still delicate

Egg Size:

Smallest among sturgeon caviars (approximately 1.5–2 mm)

Source:

Primarily from aquaculture-raised Acipenser ruthenus

Flavour Profile:

Clean, mild, slightly nutty with briny and earthy undertones

Price Range:

~$1,000–$2,500 per kg (depending on grade and rarity of golden variety)

Grades Available:

Standard grading (Grade 1 and 2), with premium “Golden Sterlet” considered a delicacy

Best Pairing (Drinks):

Dry Champagne, Chablis, light-bodied vodka, or cold sake

Best Pairing (Foods):

Buttered toast points, cucumber slices, light crème fraîche, poached eggs, or fingerling potatoes

Nutritional Breakdown (Per 100g Sterlet Caviar):
  • Calories: ~245 kcal
  • Protein: ~24–26 g
  • Fat: ~15–17 g
  • Omega-3 (EPA + DHA): ~2.5–4 g
  • Saturated fat: ~3.5 g
  • Cholesterol: ~420 mg
  • Carbohydrates: ~1–2 g
  • Sodium: ~1600–1900 mg

Micronutrients:

  • Vitamin B12: Very high (>150% RDA per 100g)
  • Choline: Supports acetylcholine production
  • Selenium, Iron, Zinc: Rich source

Vitamin A, D: Moderate levels

Cognitive-Performance Relevance (for Sport & Mental Endurance):

✅ Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA & DHA)

  • Promote cognitive sharpness and recovery from mental fatigue
  • Improve decision-making under pressure — especially in endurance and team sports

✅ Vitamin B12 + Choline

  • Key for myelin repair and neurotransmitter synthesis
  • Enhance motor learning and focus under high neural demand

✅ High-Quality Protein

  • Supports neuromuscular repair and neurotransmitter building blocks (e.g., tyrosine, tryptophan)
  • Low carbohydrate load aligns with ketogenic or targeted performance nutrition strategies

✅ Micronutrients (Selenium, Zinc, Iron)

  • Help mitigate oxidative stress and fatigue
  • Critical for oxygen transport and brain metabolism under prolonged physical load

⚠️ Notes for Athletes:
  • High sodium content — beneficial post-exercise but requires caution for salt-sensitive individuals
  • Lower fat and cholesterol profile than Beluga — may suit lean performance diets better
  • Smaller egg size and subtler flavour make it ideal for inclusion in light recovery meals or as a garnish