The Mumbai Research Centre of CIFT developed a novel method for preparing hydroxyapatite (HAP) crystals from fresh water fish scales. Hydroxyapatite and calcium phosphate based biomaterials attracted considerable interest in the field of tissue engineering. The main areas of application of HAP are orthopedics and orthodontics, where bone tissue has to be replaced, partially or totally. HAP is identified as an ideal raw material for the development of artificial bone implants and bone filling material.

The other product developed by CIFT is Fish Calcium Capsules. Fish discards like bones and scales are important sources of Calcium which has several important functions in human body. The Fish Processing Division of CIFT developed and standardized a low cost method for the extraction of calcium from fish bones. Calcium is extracted from rohu bone by removing protein and fat and encapsulated with supplemented vitamin D.

In vivo studies conducted at CIFT in albino rats have shown that fish calcium powder supplemented with vitamin D has improved the absorption and bioavailability. This product from fish bone is a viable and affordable option for dietary calcium supplementation, particularly for the women and aged.