Marathi Name of Tuna Fish (Kupa) Benefits and Price

Are you wondering what tuna fish is called in Marathi? If you've seen this popular seafood in markets or heard about its amazing health benefits, you're in the right place. Tuna fish is called "Kupa" (कुपा) or "Tunny" in Marathi. This comprehensive guide will tell you everything you need to know about tuna fish from its regional names across India to current market prices, incredible health benefits, storage tips, and delicious Indian recipes you can try at home.​

Tuna has become increasingly popular in Indian cuisine, especially in coastal regions like Mumbai, Pune, Kerala, and Karnataka. Whether you're looking to buy fresh tuna for the first time, want to understand its nutritional value, or need authentic Indian recipes, this guide covers it all.​

Marathi Name and Regional Indian Names of Tuna Fish

In Marathi, tuna fish is primarily known as "Kupa" (कुपा). This name is widely used in fish markets across Maharashtra, particularly in Mumbai's famous Crawford Market and Versova Fish Market, as well as in Pune's seafood outlets. The term "Kupa" specifically refers to various tuna species sold in these regions.​

Alternatively, tuna is also called "Tunny" in English-speaking fish markets in India, which is an older British English term for tuna that remains in use due to historical influence.​ 

Popular Maharashtrian fish used to make some delicious recipes are

• Bombil Fry
• Pomfret Tawa Fry

Regional Names Across India

What is Tuna Fish?

Tuna is a popular saltwater fish found mainly in the Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea. It is a meaty, firm-flesh fish that is rich in protein, omega-3 and healthy fats — which is why it’s widely loved by seafood lovers, gym-goers and coastal Indian communities. Unlike soft flaky fish like Rohu or Pomfret, tuna has a dense steak-like texture and holds its shape well, making it ideal for grilling, pan-searing, tawa fry or even canned use. Internationally it is one of the most consumed fish after salmon.

​In coastal parts of Maharashtra, especially Mumbai, Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg, tuna is locally called Kupa (कुपा) and is commonly sold in fish markets for frying, curries and tawa preparations.

Many people confuse tuna with surmai (seer fish), but tuna has a darker red flesh, stronger oceanic flavour and a denser, meatier texture compared to the lighter and milder surmai.

Physical Characteristics

Tuna fish are easily recognizable by their streamlined, torpedo-shaped bodies designed for speed and long-distance migration. They have a metallic blue-black coloration on their backs and silver-white on their bellies, providing camouflage in open ocean waters. Their distinctive feature is the set of small finlets between the dorsal/anal fins and the tail, which helps reduce turbulence while swimming at high speeds.​

Different tuna species vary significantly in size. Skipjack tuna, the most common variety used for canning, typically weighs 2-4 kg and measures 40-60 cm in length. Yellowfin tuna, popular in Indian markets, can reach 100-150 kg and over 1.5 meters in length. The largest species, the Atlantic bluefin tuna (though not commonly found in Indian waters), can exceed 400 kg.​

Tuna Fish Price in India 

Understanding tuna fish pricing helps you make informed purchasing decisions and get the best value. Tuna prices in India vary significantly based on the species, freshness (fresh vs. frozen vs. canned), location, and season.

Fresh Tuna Prices

Fresh tuna in Indian markets ranges from ₹150 to ₹1,000 per kilogram depending on the variety and quality.

Yellow Tuna (Yellowfin): ₹450-600 per kg at retail fish markets​

Premium Yellowfin Tuna: ₹800-1,000 per kg for sashimi-grade quality​

Skipjack Tuna: ₹250-400 per kg (more affordable option)​

Wholesale prices: ₹150-350 per kg for bulk purchases​

Frozen Tuna Prices

Frozen tuna is more widely available and typically costs ₹150-350 per kg, making it accessible to budget-conscious consumers. while frozen yellowfin ranges from ₹250-350 per kg.​

Canned Tuna Prices

Canned tuna is the most affordable and convenient option, with prices ranging from ₹74-250 for 180g cans. Premium brands packed in spring water cost more than oil-packed varieties. Per kilogram, canned tuna works out to approximately ₹400-1,400 per kg, but the convenience and long shelf life justify the premium for many consumers.​

Health Benefits of Tuna Fish

Tuna fish is often called a "superfood" due to its exceptional nutritional profile and scientifically-proven health benefits. Here's why incorporating tuna into your diet can significantly improve your health:​

1. Heart Health and Cardiovascular Protection

Tuna is one of the richest sources of omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), which are essential for cardiovascular health. These healthy fats reduce inflammation throughout the body, lower triglyceride levels, and decrease LDL (bad) cholesterol while raising HDL (good) cholesterol.​

Research consistently shows that consuming omega-3-rich fish like tuna is associated with reduced risk of heart attacks, strokes, and coronary heart disease. The American Heart Association recommends eating fish (particularly fatty fish like tuna) at least twice weekly for optimal heart health. Omega-3s also help reduce blood pressure and prevent dangerous irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias).​

2. High-Quality Protein for Muscle Building

Tuna provides approximately 30 grams of complete protein per 100 grams, making it one of the highest protein foods available. Unlike plant proteins, tuna contains all nine essential amino acids your body cannot produce on its own.​

This high protein content makes tuna excellent for muscle building, tissue repair, and recovery after exercise. For those managing weight, tuna's lean protein promotes satiety (feeling full longer) through leptin hormone stimulation, helping reduce overall calorie intake. Athletes, bodybuilders, and fitness enthusiasts often include tuna in their meal plans due to its optimal protein-to-calorie ratio.​

3. Brain Function and Cognitive Health

The omega-3 fatty acids in tuna are crucial for brain health at all life stages. DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is a primary structural component of brain tissue and supports cognitive function, memory, and learning.​

Regular tuna consumption may help reduce age-related cognitive decline and lower dementia risk. Studies suggest that omega-3s support neurotransmitter function and reduce brain inflammation associated with Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative conditions. For children and adolescents, adequate omega-3 intake supports proper brain development and academic performance.​

4. Vision and Eye Health

Eating tuna regularly may significantly reduce your risk of eye conditions. Research indicates that consuming fish multiple times per week is associated with up to 68% lower risk of dry eye syndrome. The omega-3 fatty acids support retinal health and may help prevent age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of vision loss in older adults.​

Tuna also contains vitamin A and selenium, both important for maintaining healthy vision and protecting against oxidative damage to eye tissues.​

5. Weight Management Support

Despite being nutrient-dense, tuna is remarkably low in calories—fresh tuna contains only about 184 calories per 100 grams. The high protein content increases satiety and boosts metabolism through the thermic effect of food (your body burns calories digesting protein).​

Tuna's omega-3 fatty acids may also support weight loss by reducing inflammation, improving insulin sensitivity, and promoting fat oxidation. For those following calorie-restricted diets, tuna provides maximum nutrition with minimal calories.​

Looking for High Protein Diet for weight loss then here is the article for you to follow  7-Day High-Protein Diet Plan for Weight Loss 

6. Immune System Enhancement

Tuna is an excellent source of selenium, a powerful antioxidant that supports immune function and protects cells from oxidative damage. One serving of tuna provides a substantial portion of your daily selenium needs.​

The fish also contains vitamin D, which plays a crucial role in immune response and helps the body fight infections. Many Indians are deficient in vitamin D, making tuna a valuable dietary addition.​

7. Bone Health

Tuna's vitamin D content supports calcium absorption and bone mineralization, helping prevent osteoporosis and maintaining bone strength as you age. The phosphorus in tuna also contributes to bone structure and strength.​

8. Blood Health and Energy

Tuna is rich in vitamin B12, essential for red blood cell formation and preventing anemia. B12 also supports DNA synthesis and nervous system function. Additionally, tuna contains other B vitamins (B3, B6) that help convert food into energy and support metabolic processes.​

9. Mercury Consideration

While tuna offers tremendous health benefits, it's important to be mindful of mercury content. Larger, longer-lived tuna species (like bigeye and bluefin) accumulate more mercury than smaller species. Skipjack tuna (most commonly used in cans) has the lowest mercury levels and is considered the safest choice.​

Health experts recommend limiting tuna consumption to 2-3 servings per week (approximately 300-450 grams total). Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and young children should choose lower-mercury varieties like skipjack and limit intake to 2 servings per week.​

Nutritional Information: What's in Tuna Fish?

Understanding tuna's nutritional profile helps you appreciate why it's considered such a healthy food choice. Here's a detailed breakdown:

Key Nutritional Highlights

Zero Carbohydrates: Tuna contains no carbohydrates, making it perfect for keto, low-carb, and diabetic-friendly diets.​

High Protein Density: With nearly 30g of protein per 100g, tuna ranks among the highest protein foods available, comparable to chicken breast but with added omega-3 benefits.​

Rich in B Vitamins: Tuna provides exceptional amounts of vitamin B12 (nearly 4 times your daily need in just 100g), crucial for energy production, nervous system health, and red blood cell formation.​

Selenium Powerhouse: One serving provides over 150% of your daily selenium requirement, supporting thyroid function, immune health, and acting as a powerful antioxidant.​

Low in Saturated Fat: Unlike many protein sources, tuna is very low in unhealthy saturated fats while being rich in beneficial omega-3 polyunsaturated fats.​

For more information about health nutritional benefits you can head over here.

For more health related article here is my chia seeds article in marathi , you can read चिया सीड्स म्हणजे काय? (What is Chia Seeds in Marathi)

Fresh Tuna vs. Canned Tuna: Nutritional Comparison​

Fresh Tuna Advantages:

Approximately double the vitamin D content compared to canned tuna​

Higher omega-3 fatty acid content when very fresh​

No added sodium (unless you salt it during cooking)​

Superior texture and flavor​

Canned Tuna Considerations:

Still provides excellent protein (20-25g per 100g)​

Retains most omega-3 fatty acids​

Significantly higher sodium content (200-400mg per 100g for varieties packed with salt)​

Choose "packed in spring water" over "packed in oil" for fewer calories and better omega-3 preservation​

More affordable and convenient with long shelf life​

Best Tuna Type for Nutrition

For maximum nutritional benefits, choose fresh or frozen yellowfin or skipjack tuna. If buying canned, select skipjack tuna packed in spring water with no added salt to minimize mercury exposure while maintaining protein and omega-3 benefits.

Storage and Freshness Tips for Tuna Fish

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining tuna's quality, flavor, and safety. Here's everything you need to know:

Buying Fresh Tuna: Freshness Indicators

Before buying, check these freshness signs:​

Appearance: Fresh tuna should have bright, translucent flesh with a deep red or pink color (depending on species). Avoid cloudy, dull, or brown-tinged flesh, which indicates age.​

Texture: The flesh should be firm and spring back when gently pressed. If it leaves an indentation or feels mushy, it's not fresh.​

Smell: Fresh tuna should have a mild, clean ocean smell—never strong, fishy, or ammonia-like odors. If the smell is overpowering, don't buy it.​

Eyes (whole fish): If buying whole tuna, look for clear, bright, bulging eyes. Cloudy or sunken eyes indicate the fish is past its prime.​

Gills (whole fish): Gills should be bright red or pink, not brown or gray.​

Storing Fresh Tuna at Home

Immediate Refrigeration: Place fresh tuna in the refrigerator immediately after purchase. Time at room temperature allows bacterial growth.​

Optimal Temperature: Store at 0-3°C (32-38°F), which is colder than most standard refrigerator settings. Place tuna on the bottom shelf (coldest part) or in the meat drawer.​

Proper Wrapping: Wrap tuna first in moisture-absorbent paper (paper towels work well), then wrap in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. This prevents bacterial growth while maintaining moisture.​​

Use Quickly: Fresh tuna should be consumed within 1-2 days of purchase for optimal quality and safety. Don't keep it longer than this unless freezing.​

Freezing Fresh Tuna for Long-Term Storage

Preparation: Pat tuna completely dry, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or place in airtight freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.​

Freezer Duration: Properly wrapped tuna can be frozen for up to 3 months while maintaining good quality. Beyond this, quality degrades though it remains safe.​

Thawing: Thaw frozen tuna in the refrigerator overnight, never at room temperature. For faster thawing, place sealed tuna in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes.​

Don't Refreeze: Once thawed, use tuna within 24 hours and do not refreeze, as this significantly degrades quality and safety.​

Storing Canned Tuna

Unopened Cans: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Pantries or kitchen cupboards work perfectly. Properly stored, unopened canned tuna lasts 3-5 years, though it's best used within the printed "best by" date.​

After Opening: This is where many people make mistakes. Never store opened tuna in the original can. The exposed metal can oxidize and affect flavor. Instead:​

Transfer remaining tuna to an airtight glass or plastic container​

Refrigerate immediately​

Use within 3-5 days maximum​

If tuna develops an off smell or appearance, discard it​

Pro Tip: Write the opening date on your storage container to track freshness.​

Cooked Tuna Storage

Refrigeration: Store cooked tuna dishes (curries, fries, etc.) in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Use within 3-4 days.​

Freezing: Most cooked tuna preparations can be frozen for 2-3 months. Curries and sauced dishes freeze particularly well, while fried preparations may lose some crispness.​

Food Safety Tips

Wash Hands: Always wash hands thoroughly before and after handling raw tuna.​

Separate Cutting Boards: Use separate cutting boards for raw fish and other foods to prevent cross-contamination.​

Cook Thoroughly: Unless preparing sashimi-grade tuna, cook to an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F) to kill potential bacteria.​

When in Doubt, Throw it Out: If tuna smells off, looks slimy, or you're unsure of its freshness, discard it rather than risking foodborne illness.

 Popular Indian Tuna Recipes

Tuna's firm texture and rich flavor make it perfect for Indian cooking methods and spice profiles. Here are the most beloved tuna preparations across India:

Kerala-Style Tuna Curry (Choora Meen Curry)

This is arguably the most popular tuna recipe in India, particularly in Kerala where tuna fishing and cooking traditions run deep.​

Key Ingredients: Fresh or frozen tuna pieces, coconut (grated or coconut milk), tamarind or kudampuli (fish tamarind), shallots, green chilies, curry leaves, fenugreek seeds, turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, ginger, and garlic.​

Preparation Method: The tuna is first cleaned and cut into steaks or chunks. Onions and ginger-garlic paste are sautéed, then spices (turmeric, chili powder, coriander) are added with tomatoes. Coconut paste or milk is added along with tamarind water for tanginess. The tuna pieces are gently added and simmered until cooked through, typically 15-20 minutes. Curry leaves and coconut oil are tempered and added at the end for authentic Kerala flavor.​

Taste Profile: Rich, tangy, and moderately spicy with the distinctive Kerala combination of coconut and tamarind. The curry has a thick, flavorful gravy perfect for serving with rice or appam.​

Best Tuna Type: Skipjack or yellowfin work equally well. Many Kerala cooks prefer skipjack for its robust flavor that stands up to strong spices.​

Tuna Fish Fry (Choorai Meen Fry)

This popular South Indian preparation transforms tuna into crispy, spiced perfection.​​

Key Ingredients: Tuna steaks or fillets, red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, garam masala, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, curry leaves, and oil for frying.​​

Preparation Method: Tuna pieces are marinated with spices, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, and salt for 30 minutes to 1 hour. The marinated fish is then shallow-fried or pan-fried in oil until golden brown and crispy on both sides, typically 3-4 minutes per side. Curry leaves are often crisped in the oil for added flavor.​​

Taste Profile: Crispy exterior with a slightly spicy, tangy coating and moist, flaky interior. The garam masala adds warmth and complexity.​​

Serving Suggestions: Excellent as a starter with lemon wedges and onion rings, or as a side dish with rice and dal. Also popular in Kerala as a lunch box item.​​

Pro Tip: Don't overcook tuna—it becomes dry and tough. Cook just until the center is opaque.​

If you this fish recipes , I am sure you would love the recipe of Bangda Fry recipe as well.

Fresh vs. Frozen vs. Canned: Which to Choose?

Fresh Tuna:

Pros: Best taste and texture, maximum nutritional value, versatile cooking options​

Cons: Higher price (₹450-1,000/kg), limited availability, short shelf life (1-2 days), requires immediate use​

Best For: Special occasions, grilling, tuna steaks, when you plan to cook within 1-2 days​

Frozen Tuna:

Pros: Good quality retention, longer shelf life (3 months frozen), more affordable (₹150-350/kg), wider availability​

Cons: Slightly lower nutritional value than fresh, texture changes slightly after freezing​

Best For: Regular cooking, stocking up, budget-conscious buyers, landlocked cities​

Canned Tuna:

Pros: Most affordable, extremely convenient, very long shelf life (3-5 years), no refrigeration needed, widely available​

Cons: Softer texture, higher sodium content, lower vitamin D, not suitable for steaks or grilling​

Best For: Quick meals, emergency pantry staple, cutlets, sandwiches, salads​

Quality Indicators When Buying

For Fresh Tuna:

Bright, translucent, deep red/pink flesh​

Firm texture that springs back when pressed​

Mild ocean smell, not fishy​

No brown or gray discoloration​

If whole: bright, clear eyes and red gills​

For Frozen Tuna:

No ice crystals or freezer burn on the flesh​

Packaging intact without tears​

No strong odor (smell through packaging if possible)​

Check freezer temperature is properly maintained​

For Canned Tuna:

Check expiration/best-by date​

Cans should not be dented, rusted, or bulging​

Choose "skipjack" for lowest mercury​

Select "packed in spring water" over oil for health benefits​

Look for "no added salt" varieties if watching sodium

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the Marathi name of tuna fish?

Tuna fish is called "Kupa" (कुपा) or "Tunny" in Marathi. This name is commonly used in fish markets across Maharashtra, particularly in Mumbai and Pune. In other Indian languages, tuna is known as "Choora" in Malayalam, "Soorai" in Tamil, and "Tuna Machhli" in Hindi.​

Q2. What is tuna fish price in India?

Fresh tuna fish price in India ranges from ₹150 to ₹1,000 per kilogram depending on the type and location. In Mumbai, yellow tuna (yellowfin) costs ₹450-600 per kg, while premium varieties reach ₹800-1,000 per kg. Skipjack tuna is more affordable at ₹150-400 per kg. Frozen tuna costs ₹150-350 per kg, and canned tuna ranges from ₹74-250 for 180g cans. Prices are lowest during peak fishing season (October-April) and in coastal cities.​

Q3. Is tuna fish healthy?

Yes, tuna fish is extremely healthy and considered a superfood. It's rich in omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health, high-quality protein (30g per 100g) for muscle building, vitamin B12 for energy and blood health, selenium for immune function, and vitamin D for bones. Regular tuna consumption may reduce heart disease risk, support brain function, improve eye health, and aid weight management. However, limit consumption to 2-3 servings per week due to mercury content, and choose skipjack tuna which has the lowest mercury levels.​

Q4. Where can I buy fresh tuna fish in India?

Fresh tuna is available at major fish markets in Mumbai (Crawford Market, Versova Fish Market), Pune, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, and other metropolitan cities. Coastal cities generally offer better freshness and prices. You can also buy frozen tuna at supermarkets like D-Mart, Reliance Fresh, and Spencer's. Online seafood delivery services such as Licious and FreshToHome deliver fresh and frozen tuna to your doorstep in major cities. For best quality, visit fish markets early in the morning (6-9 AM).​

Q5. How to store tuna fish properly?

Fresh tuna: Refrigerate immediately at 0-3°C on the bottom shelf, wrapped in moisture-absorbent paper then plastic wrap. Use within 1-2 days. For longer storage, freeze wrapped tuna for up to 3 months. Canned tuna: Store unopened cans in a cool, dry place for 3-5 years. After opening, never leave in the can—transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-5 days. Cooked tuna: Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for 2-3 months.​

Q6. What are the best tuna recipes for Indian cooking?

The most popular Indian tuna recipes include Kerala-style tuna curry (choora meen curry) with coconut and tamarind, tuna fish fry with spices and curry leaves, tuna ularthiyathu (dry roast with shallots), tuna masala in North Indian tomato-based gravy, tuna cutlets made with potatoes and breadcrumbs, and tuna pulao (one-pot rice dish). Skipjack and yellowfin tuna work best for curries and fries, while canned tuna is perfect for cutlets.​​

Q7. What is the difference between fresh and canned tuna?

Fresh tuna has superior taste and texture, approximately double the vitamin D content, higher omega-3 fatty acids when very fresh, and no added sodium. It costs ₹450-1,000/kg and must be used within 1-2 days. Canned tuna is more affordable (₹74-250 for 180g), extremely convenient with 3-5 year shelf life, and widely available. However, it has softer texture, significantly higher sodium (200-400mg per 100g), and slightly lower nutritional value. Fresh tuna is best for steaks and grilling, while canned works well for cutlets, sandwiches, and quick meals.​

Q8. Is tuna fish safe during pregnancy?

Yes, tuna is safe during pregnancy in moderation—limit to 2 servings (approximately 300g total) per week due to mercury content. Choose skipjack tuna, which has the lowest mercury levels among tuna species. Avoid bigeye and bluefin tuna, which contain higher mercury that can affect fetal brain development. Tuna provides valuable omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and nutrients beneficial for pregnancy, so don't eliminate it entirely—just be mindful of quantity and type. Canned light tuna (usually skipjack) is safer than canned white tuna (albacore).​

Conclusion

Tuna fish, known as "Kupa" (कुपा) in Marathi, is a nutritional powerhouse that deserves a place in your regular diet. Whether you're drawn to its impressive health benefits—including heart-protective omega-3 fatty acids, muscle-building protein, and brain-supporting nutrients—or its versatility in Indian cooking, tuna offers exceptional value.​

With prices ranging from affordable skipjack (₹150-400/kg) to premium yellowfin (₹450-1,000/kg), there's a tuna option for every budget. The variety available—fresh, frozen, and canned—means you can incorporate this superfood into your meals regardless of your location or cooking schedule.​

From Kerala's beloved choora meen curry to crispy tuna fry, Indian cuisine has embraced tuna with delicious, spice-forward preparations that complement the fish's robust flavor. Whether you're an experienced cook or just beginning to explore seafood, tuna's firm texture and forgiving nature make it an excellent choice.​

Remember to choose sustainable, pole-and-line caught tuna when possible, particularly from India's Lakshadweep fisheries. Opt for skipjack varieties for the best combination of affordability, low mercury content, and sustainability.​

Ready to experience tuna's incredible benefits? Visit your local fish market or order online today, and try one of the authentic Indian recipes shared in this guide. Your taste buds—and your health—will thank you!

Have you tried cooking tuna at home? Share your favorite tuna recipe or ask any questions in the comments below. Don't forget to bookmark this guide for future reference when shopping for or cooking tuna fish.