National Seafood Month: Time to Recognize Three Favorites
October is National Seafood Month! To honor this sea-licious food group, we thought you might find the following facts interesting about three of America’s favorite seafoods. Something to share with fellow diners!
Branzino is fish that answers to many : European or Mediterranean Sea Bass in many parts of the world, Robalo n Spain, Loup de Mer in France and Lavraki in Greece.
Shrimp is the premier seafood choice for home cooking and restaurant cuisine in the U.S. Over 1 billion pounds of shrimp are eaten each year in the U.S. alone.
Shrimp are omnivores that eat minuscule plants and animal matter.
Calamari, also known as squid, can reach speeds up to 25 miles per hour (40 km), which makes them the fastest marine invertebrates on the planet.
Shellfish, like shrimp, can survive by filtering water; a single shellfish can filter an estimated 15 to 20 gallons of water daily.
Calamari lives in almost every body of saltwater on earth and even some fresh water.
Most squid species live at least 1,000 feet (300 meters) below the surface. The reason? The water is cooler, and they enjoy being alone.
Fun facts aside, there are so many additional facts that point to the benefits of a seafood-based diet. Below are a few.
Three for Health
Branzino is one of the best sources of “good” fatty acids. It is also high in protein and rich in minerals and fat-soluble vitamins A, E, and D. Meanwhile, the U.S. FDA lists branzino (European sea bass) in its “best choice” section based on its nutrition as well as its low mercury levels. This is why the FDA, EPA,* and American Heart Association recommend consuming two to three servings of a fish with branzino’s health qualifications two to three times a week. And branzino is a versatile fish with a firm texture and flavorful yet subtle taste that makes it ideal on its own or to star in a variety of ethnic dishes.
Shrimp is high in protein and low in calories and carbohydrates. It may also help prevent cancer thanks to being rich in selenium, an antioxidant mineral that activates enzymes that fight free radicals that cause cancer. It is high in B-12 and contains antioxidants that reduce inflammation and oxidative damage. Of course, shrimp are also tasty, easy to cook, and versatile. No wonder Americans eat one billion pounds of shrimp a year!
Like shrimp, calamari is high in protein, low in calories, and chock full of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B-12, potassium, iron, phosphorus, and copper. These nutrients are essential for keeping blood cells, bones, and the immune system healthy. Also, like shrimp, the antioxidants in calamari fight free radicals to help protect against heart disease and various forms of cancer. So, let your friends and family know you care about their well-being and order an extra calamari dish to share.
There is an endless array of delicious recipes for a wide range of seafood, but these three rank as some of the top in taste, health and versatility. Whether you are already a committed seafood fan or approaching this popular meat alternative a few steps at a time, there is no better time than National Seafood Month to plunge in and add more seafood adventure into your meals!