It’s more than just where they’re caught.
They come from different places, vary in price and availability, and have distinct flavor profiles.
But both varieties of salmon provide good levels of vitamins and protein.
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Wild-caught fish are caught in the ocean using lines, nets, or traps.
Farmed salmon live in tanks or floating pens.
Wild-caught fish eat what they find in their environment, while farmed fish are given pelleted feed.
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About 75% of the salmon we eat is farm-raised, according to the United Nations.
The Gulf of Maine distinct population of Atlantic salmon is classified as endangered under the Endangered Species Act.
Taste and Appearance
Pacific salmon tends to be leaner with a richer flavor.
Atlantic salmon is usually milder.
Atlantic salmon has mild flavor due to being fed pelletized food which contains corn and soy.
It is generally considered to be less flavorful than wild-caught species of salmon.
These concerns include contamination of natural habitats, disease, escaped farmed fish, and waste pollution.
For more information, see our article aboutWild vs. Farmed Salmon.
Availability and Price
Because Atlantic salmon is farm raised, its available year round.
Atlantic salmon is generally less expensive than Pacific salmon.
This will yield a moist, tender, and slightly pink in the center portion of fish.
Alaskas sockeye salmon, also known as red salmon, is known for its beautiful deep red color.
