Fish, salmon, Atlantic
Category: Finfish & Shellfish Products Characteristics: Farmed Method: Raw
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
177
Nutrient
% Daily Value*
*Daily Values are based on the reference caloric intake of 2,000 calories for adults and children aged 4+ years. Source: Food & Drug Administration
Calorie Sources
Nutrient | Calories kcal (%) |
---|---|
Fat | 103 (58.0%) |
Protein | 69 (39.2%) |
Total | 177 (100%) |
Serving: 3 oz [85g]
Composition
Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
---|---|
Water | 55 (64.9%) |
Protein | 17 (20.4%) |
Fat | 11 (13.4%) |
Ash | 1.0 (1.1%) |
Total | 85 (100%) |
Serving: 3 oz [85g]
Benefits
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High in omega-3 fatty acids which are good for heart health and may help reduce inflammation
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Rich source of high quality protein to support muscle growth and maintenance
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Contains selenium which is an antioxidant good for thyroid function
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A good source of vitamin D which is important for bone and immune health
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Contains B vitamins like B12 which are important for energy production and red blood cell formation
Risks
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Farmed salmon may contain higher levels of environmental contaminants like PCBs and dioxins compared to wild salmon
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Due to farming practices, farmed salmon has a higher fat content and lower levels of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids compared to wild salmon
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Raw or undercooked salmon runs the risk of parasites that can cause illnesses if eaten raw or undercooked. Proper cooking kills any parasites present
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Antibiotics and pesticides used in salmon farming may concentrate in farmed salmon tissues over time
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Colorings may be added to farmed salmon feed to deepen their flesh color to resemble wild salmon. The long term effects of these colorings are unknown
Additional Information
Fish, specifically Atlantic salmon, is a highly nutritious food option that offers numerous health benefits. However, it is important to consider the specific attributes of farmed and raw salmon to understand the potential risks associated with consuming this particular product.
Nutritional Benefits:
1. High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Atlantic salmon is renowned for its rich content of omega-3 fatty acids. These essential fats are beneficial for heart health, reducing inflammation, and supporting brain function.
2. Excellent Source of Protein: Salmon is a complete protein source, meaning it provides all essential amino acids required for optimal bodily function. Protein is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall health.
3. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Salmon is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, vitamin B12, selenium, and potassium. Vitamin D is crucial for bone health and immune function, while vitamin B12 is important for nerve health and red blood cell production.
4. Promotes Heart Health: The omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon help reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering blood pressure, reducing triglyceride levels, and decreasing the risk of abnormal heart rhythms.
5. Supports Brain Function: The omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA found in salmon are essential for brain health and development. Consuming salmon regularly may improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline.
Risks:
1. Contaminant Exposure: Farmed salmon may contain higher levels of contaminants, such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), compared to wild-caught salmon. PCBs are environmental pollutants that can accumulate in fish. However, the levels of contaminants in farmed salmon are generally considered safe for consumption.
2. Parasite Infection: Raw salmon, including farmed salmon, can potentially contain parasites like tapeworms or roundworms. These parasites can cause gastrointestinal discomfort and other health issues. Therefore, it is recommended to cook salmon thoroughly to eliminate any potential parasites.
3. Antibiotic and Chemical Use: Farmed salmon may be treated with antibiotics and other chemicals to prevent disease and promote growth. While regulations exist to ensure the safe use of these substances, some concerns have been raised regarding their potential impact on human health and the environment.
4. Omega-6 to Omega-3 Ratio: Farmed salmon may have a higher omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acid ratio compared to wild-caught salmon. An imbalanced omega-6 to omega-3 ratio can promote inflammation in the body. However, the overall health benefits of consuming farmed salmon still outweigh this potential concern.
In conclusion, raw, farmed Atlantic salmon provides numerous nutritional benefits, including high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamins, and minerals. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with farmed salmon, such as contaminant exposure, parasite infection, and the use of antibiotics and chemicals. To minimize these risks, it is recommended to cook salmon thoroughly and choose wild-caught salmon when possible.