Abstract
This study aims to develop nutritionally improved alternative fast-food products by incorporating anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus), a fish with high nutritional value, into three popular fast-food items (toast, burger, and pizza) frequently consumed by fast-food consumers. Anchovies, due to their rich content of omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, vitamins A and D, and minerals, are a valuable food source for public health. Within the scope of this study, the nutritional compositions (crude protein, crude fat, crude ash, moisture, carbohydrate, energy) and sensory properties of the developed products were determined. According to the results of the analysis, the highest crude protein (18.64%) and crude ash (4.38%) content were found in anchovy-enriched toast, while the highest crude fat content (10.82%) was observed in anchovy burger (p < 0.05). Sensory analyses indicated that the panelists generally accepted all products. Specifically, the anchovy-enriched burger received the highest scores for appearance (90%) and aroma (40%). These findings demonstrate that anchovy-enriched fast-food products are both nutritionally rich and consumer-accepted, nutritionally improved food alternatives. Furthermore, this study identifies significant potential for utilizing aquatic products within the nutritionally enriched, seafood-based product sector.