The fish may also be pickled, smoked and fried. But Americans generally aren't interested in eating small, oily fish with numerous bones – even though, in the case of herring, their oil content is part of what makes them tasty and healthy, and many of their bones are small enough that they can be eaten.

Why does herring have so many bones?

Herring, like most “forage fish” (species that are preyed on by predators), have multiple thin-haired bones, perhaps because they have no mechanism to secrete gas into their swim bladder. Their fine bones may help to maintain neutral buoyancy. ... Intermuscular “bones” are actually ossified ligaments.

Is herring good to eat?

Herring is an excellent source of lean protein. A single three-ounce serving of herring contains a whopping 20 grams of protein. In addition to its high protein content, herring contains many other key nutrients, such as: Omega-3 fatty acids.