Pollock vs. Cod: A Comparison of Popular Seafood Choices
February 07, 2025
🐟 Pollock vs. Cod: Which Fish Is Best for Your Plate?
Both pollock and cod are mild, flaky white fish widely used in seafood dishes around the world. They are both packed with protein, low in fat, and incredibly versatile in cooking. However, their differences in texture, taste, and sustainability make each fish unique.
So, which one should you choose? Let’s explore their flavor profiles, nutritional benefits, sustainability, and the best ways to cook them.
📢 Looking for high-quality pollock and cod? Order fresh seafood here:
✅ Pacific Cod Fillets – Firm, flavorful, and perfect for frying
✅ Lingcod Fillets – Mild and meaty, a delicious alternative to cod
✅ Alaskan Pollock Fillets – Flaky, affordable, and great for fish tacos
✅ Pacific Whiting – A soft, delicate fish with a mild flavor
✅ Chilean Sea Bass – Buttery and rich, a premium white fish option
📌 What Is the Difference Between Pollock and Cod?
| Feature | Pollock | Cod |
|---|---|---|
| Species | Alaskan Pollock (Gadus chalcogrammus), Atlantic Pollock (Pollachius pollachius) | Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhua), Pacific Cod (Gadus macrocephalus) |
| Flavor | Mild, slightly sweet, light | Mild, savory, slightly buttery |
| Texture | Soft, flaky, delicate | Firm, dense, holds shape well |
| Best Cooking Methods | Baking, frying, soups, fish sticks | Grilling, frying, fish & chips |
| Omega-3 Content | 0.4g per 100g | 0.2g per 100g |
| Mercury Levels | Low | Low |
| Sustainability | Highly sustainable | Some populations overfished |
| Price | More affordable | Slightly higher cost |
🐟 Pollock Overview
What is pollock?
Pollock is a mild, flaky white fish that comes from cold North Atlantic and Pacific waters. It is widely used in fast food fish sandwiches, fish sticks, and imitation crab meat (surimi).
📌 Fun Fact: Alaskan pollock is one of the most commonly used fish in McDonald's Filet-O-Fish!
✔ Best for: Fish tacos, fish sandwiches, seafood stews
✔ Affordable & sustainable
Order high-quality pollock here:
👉 Alaskan Pollock Fillets
🐟 Cod Overview
What is cod?
Cod is a firm, flaky white fish known for its mild, buttery flavor and meaty texture. It’s a favorite choice for fish & chips, grilled fillets, and seafood soups.
📌 Fun Fact: Atlantic cod was historically so abundant that it was once called "the fish that changed the world" due to its role in global trade!
✔ Best for: Grilling, fish & chips, baked cod recipes
✔ Richer flavor than pollock
Looking for premium cod? Check out:
👉 Pacific Cod Fillets
🎣 Pollock vs. Cod – Which Tastes Better?
🍽️ Pollock – Light & Delicate
✔ Mild, slightly sweet flavor
✔ Flaky & soft texture
✔ Absorbs marinades and sauces well
✔ Perfect for soups, tacos, and casseroles
📌 Try it with Pacific Whiting as an alternative!
🍽️ Cod – Buttery & Firm
✔ Mild but richer, slightly buttery taste
✔ Firm texture, holds up well in cooking
✔ Best for fish & chips, grilling, or pan-searing
📌 Want premium cod? Try Lingcod Fillets !
💪 Pollock vs. Cod – Nutrition Comparison
Both fish are low in calories, high in protein, and packed with essential nutrients.
| Nutrient | Pollock (per 100g) | Cod (per 100g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 92 kcal | 82 kcal |
| Protein | 19g | 18g |
| Omega-3 | 0.4g | 0.2g |
| Vitamin B12 | 50% DV | 45% DV |
| Selenium | 40% DV | 35% DV |
✔ Pollock has slightly more omega-3s, which support heart health.
✔ Cod has fewer calories and a firmer texture, making it a great option for lean protein meals.
🔥 Best Cooking Methods for Pollock & Cod
🍳 Cooking Pollock – Light & Delicate Dishes
✔ Baking: Coat with lemon, butter & herbs
✔ Pan-frying: Lightly breaded for fish sandwiches
✔ Soups & Curries: Perfect for chowders and stews
📌 Try using Pacific Whiting as a substitute for pollock!
🍳 Cooking Cod – Firm & Flavorful Dishes
✔ Grilling: Holds up well, perfect with garlic butter
✔ Deep-frying: Classic fish & chips favorite
✔ Baking: Cook with a parmesan crust for added flavor
📌 Want high-quality cod? Order Pacific Cod Fillets !
🌎 Sustainability – Which Fish Is More Eco-Friendly?
✔ Pollock: Highly sustainable due to fast reproduction rates and strict fishing regulations
✔ Cod: Some populations are overfished, but Pacific cod is a better choice
📌 For eco-friendly seafood, buy from responsible sources! Check out Global Seafoods’ sustainable collection .
❓ FAQs About Pollock vs. Cod
Q1: Which fish is cheaper?
A: Pollock is more affordable than cod.
Q2: Can I substitute pollock for cod in recipes?
A: Yes! Cod is firmer, but pollock works well in most white fish recipes.
Q3: Which fish is better for fish & chips?
A: Cod is the classic choice, but pollock is a budget-friendly alternative.
🎉 Conclusion – Which Fish Should You Choose?
Both pollock and cod are delicious, nutritious, and versatile.
✅ Best for Light, Affordable Meals → Alaskan Pollock Fillets
✅ Best for Firm Texture & Classic Fish Dishes → Pacific Cod Fillets
🍽️ Ready to enjoy premium seafood? Order from Global Seafoods today!