How to Select the “Superfood of the Sea” to Optimize Benefits

Written by Sarah Cownley
Published on

There’s no shortage of information on the benefits of salmon, the omega-3 rich superfood of the sea. But there isn’t a lot that distinguishes between the types of salmon available on store shelves.

And guess what? That info can be pretty important.

Because not all salmon are “created” equally.

Some salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, an essential fat that humans do not produce on their own. Omega-3’s are noted for playing important roles in heart health, brain health, cholesterol levels, brain function, inflammation, and more.

But those benefits are linked, largely, to wild salmon. Farmed salmon, on the other hand, even given the deceptive “organic” label, lags far behind in nutrition, according to experts.

While farmed salmon boasts an impressive nutrient profile, rich in omega 3, vitamin D (one of the few food sources of this important vitamin), iron, zinc, and potassium, farmed salmon has much less.

It also has some things you might not want, like potentially harmful contaminants, saturated fat, and pro-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids. The higher levels of saturated fat and omega-6’s are likely the result of the diet these fish are fed and the fact that they don’t spend their lives swimming upstream.

So, when you’re looking to buy salmon to improve the overall health if your diet, wild salmon is the way to go. But how can you tell the difference? Here are some tips that might help you distinguish between farmed and wild (if it’s not written on a label).

The color. Farmed salmon will have a light pink hue and more white marbling. Wild salmon, on the other hand, will be more a deep, reddish-orange colour.

The price point: Wild salmon is going to have a higher price than farmed. You’ll be unlikely to find it for less than $10 per pound. Put simply, you get what you pay for.

The origin: If it comes from Alaska (in the U.S.) or British Columbia (in Canada), it is likely wild and fished sustainably. Almost all Atlantic salmon (east) is farmed. It’s also a safe bet that most restaurant salmon unless noted, is farmed.

The time of year: Salmon season typically runs from May-September, so if you’re buying it in that range, it is likely wild.

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On any matter relating to your health or well-being, please check with an appropriate health professional. No statement herein is to be construed as a diagnosis, treatment, preventative, or cure for any disease, disorder or abnormal physical state. The statements herein have not been evaluated by the Foods and Drugs Administration or Health Canada. Dr. Marchione and the doctors on the Bel Marra Health Editorial Team are compensated by Bel Marra Health for their work in creating content, consulting along with formulating and endorsing products.

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