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The world is made up of 75% water, and within these waters lie plenty of delicious treats to eat. In fact, humans have been sourcing food from the oceans and rivers since ancient times. Whether you are a seafood enthusiast or not, you can't deny that seafood plays a significant role in culinary traditions across the United States. But what are the most popular seafoods? Here’s a list of the fish most consumed in America and what makes them so great. These popular seafood choices will inspire you to visit your favorite seafood restaurant tonight.
Shrimp is the most popular seafood in America, and it’s easy to see why! It’s great for people on a diet because it is high in protein but low in fat. Shrimp is also packed with Vitamin B12, calcium, iodine, phosphorus, selenium, and Omega-3s.
Every year, Americans consume approximately 1.27 billion pounds of shrimp. That works out to about 4.1 pounds per person. Shrimp can be served in a variety of ways, including grilled on a kebab, in salads, in stews and jambalaya, deep-fried, or simply on its own. Certain dishes are regional favorites, but shrimp is a beloved seafood from coast to coast. However you like it, you’ll find a shrimp dish that you love, often mixed with plenty of other tasty ingredients. Despite being a bit higher in price than some other options, its popularity continues to soar.
Salmon is the second most popular seafood in the United States. Whether farmed or wild-caught, Americans consume 918 million pounds of salmon every year.
Salmon not only tastes fantastic but also offers numerous health benefits. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and vitamin D. Known for its strong, distinctive flavor, salmon is a favorite for many seafood lovers. Depending on the restaurant, you can enjoy salmon raw in sushi and maki rolls, deep-fried, baked for optimal nutrients, or smoked. It’s also versatile enough to be included in a variety of dishes.
Tuna is another extremely popular seafood in America, especially in sandwiches. Tuna salad sandwiches are available at most major sandwich chains across the country and are easy to make at home. Americans consume 701 million pounds of tuna every year.
Tuna is packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids. While fresh tuna generally has more nutrients than canned tuna, both are popular choices. Tuna is also frequently used in sushi. Additionally, it can be enjoyed in sandwiches with mayonnaise and celery or simply by itself. Due to its size, fresh tuna steaks can be compared to beef steaks. However, it’s important to note that tuna contains higher levels of mercury than other fish, so pregnant women should consume it in moderation. Despite this, tuna remains popular due to its nutritional benefits and affordability.
Finally, the fourth most popular seafood in the US is Alaskan Pollock. This fish is one of the most delicious marine edibles found in Alaska.
Alaskan Pollock shares many of the same nutritional values and health benefits as other popular fish and is great for those on a diet. Typically, meals featuring Pollock include the fish paired with vegetables or rice. There are numerous ways to prepare this versatile fish, and with proper training, any cook can turn it into a gourmet meal.
Despite controlling more ocean territory than any other country in the world, 85% of the seafood consumed in America is imported. Supporting locally fished seafood not only ensures fresher meals but also helps support American fishermen and the economy. It takes significant training to be a professional fisherman, and regional fish should be more popular choices to eat.
From shrimp and salmon to tuna and Alaskan Pollock, these top 4 most popular seafoods in the US offer a range of flavors, health benefits, and versatile cooking options. Whether you prefer your seafood grilled, fried, or raw, there’s a dish to satisfy every palate. Next time you plan a meal, consider these popular choices and support local fisheries for the freshest and most sustainable options.