Farmed salmon vs. wild-caught salmon

Farmed salmon and wild-caught salmon both offer substantial health benefits, but there are some key differences between the two.

Farmed salmon tends to have higher fat content, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, due to their controlled diet. Farmed salmon is often rich in vitamins and minerals such as B12, and selenium, which are important for immune function and overall well-being. However, farmed salmon may also have higher levels of contaminants, such as pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), due to the conditions of farming and feeding practices.

Wild-caught salmon is generally considered leaner, with a more natural, diverse diet from the ocean that provides a different nutrient profile. Wild-caught salmon is also praised for its lower fat content and fewer environmental concerns, such as the impact of salmon farming practices.

Comparing salmon nutritional profiles

Wild-caught salmon (113 grams)Farmed salmon (113 grams)
22 grams protein23 grams protein
5 grams fat (8% DV)15 grams fat (19% DV)
39 mg calcium (4% DV)10 mg calcium (1% DV)
1 mg iron (6%)0.4 mg iron (2% DV)
99 mg cholesterol (33% DV)60 mg cholesterol (20% DV)

Spicy Salmon Bowls

Prep Time
18 min
Cook Time
22 min
Total Time
40 min

Ingredients:

Makes 4 servings


Instructions:

Nutrition Facts

Servings Per Recipe: 4
Amount Per Serving
Calories542
Total fats24.1 g
Saturated fat3.7 g
Trans fat0 g
Total carbohydrates54.9 g
Dietary fiber5.9 g
Added sugars8.5 g
Sodium862.7 mg
Protein28.5 g