Pictured recipe:Shrimp Scampi
Shrimp is a beloved shellfish for many reasons. Whether it’s inSpicy Shrimp Tacosor decadentShrimp & Cheddar Grits, there are endless ways to prepare these crustaceans. They also boast someimpressive nutritionand are high in protein while being relatively low in calories, making them a filling addition to any meal. That said, it can be hard to know how to pick the best shrimp for your health, for flavor and for the environment. We took a dive into wild caught shrimp, farmed shrimp and other things to look for when choosing what to buy. Here’s what you need to know.
Wild Caught Shrimp to Choose
There are over 3,000 species of shrimp but only four wild caught shrimp options that are considered sustainable: pink shrimp from Oregon (aSeafood Watchbest choice); spot prawns from the Pacific Northwest; brown, white and pink shrimp from the Gulf of Mexico (except Louisiana); and any shrimp from U.S. and Canadian waters in the northern Atlantic.
Farmed Shrimp to Choose
Although closed-loop farming is the most eco-friendly, labels rarely include information on farming practices. However, here’s information youcanfind:
Check for Preservatives
For best taste and health, limit preservatives. Here are the three to watch out for:
Shrimp Sizes
Types of Shrimp in North America
Pink shrimpare found everywhere from the Oregon coast to Florida. They are sweet and delicate.
White shrimpare slightly sweeter with a softer texture and more mild taste. Most farm-raised shrimp are Pacific whites, which tend to be milder with a less ocean-like taste.
Brown shrimprepresent the majority of shrimp caught in the Gulf; they have a firm texture and slight iodine taste.
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