Varieties of Alaska Salmon - Big Y® World Class Market®

There are five species of Alaska Salmon, each with its own distinct characteristics. The five species of Alaska Salmon are members of a large family of fish which are abundant throughout the Temperate Zones of the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Salmon and their relatives, which include Atlantic Salmon, are active and aggressive predators who demand the high levels of oxygen most commonly found in cold, rushing streams, estuaries and the upper levels of the ocean.

Salmon from Alaska's cold, clear waters ranks among the world's finest seafood. There, the five species of natural, wild Alaska salmon (king, red, sockeye, coho, chum and pink) mature in a pristine, natural environment that provides them with superior flavor, color and texture.

ALASKA KING OR CHINOOK SALMON

Largest and least abundant of all 5 species.
4 to 7 year life cycle.
Average weight: approximately 20 lbs.
Prized for red flesh, rich flavor, high oil content, and firm texture.
Most often served in upscale, white tablecloth restaurants.

ALASKA SOCKEYE OR RED SALMON

Known for its deep red flesh, Sockeye retains its color, firm texture, and distinctive flavor when cooked or processed.
4 to 6 year life cycle.
Average weight: approximately 6 lbs.
Has long been the salmon of choice of the quality conscious Japanese market.

ALASKA COHO OR SILVER SALMON

Second largest of 5 species.
3 to 4 year life cycle.
Average weight: approximately 12 lbs.
One of the most commonly used species in foodservice.
Known for their orange-red flesh, superior texture, and excellent eye appeal.

ALASKA CHUM SALMON

Strong foodservice demand; used in almost every segment.
3 to 5 year life cycle.
Average weight: approximately 8 lbs.
Known for their firm pink flesh and moderate fat content which results in their delicate flavor.

ALASKA PINK SALMON

Smallest and most abundant of 5 species.
2 year life cycle.
Average weight: 2 to 3 lbs.
Known for their bright, rose-colored flesh and delicate flavor. Their abundant supply makes them an attractive value.

More About Alaska At Little Y!

LINKS TO VISIT:

View a video clip of Chef Graham Kerr, of "Galloping Gourmet" fame, as he offers tips for grilling Alaska Salmon.
(Viewers will need Netscape4.0 or IE 4.0 or higher).
Alaska Seafood Salmon Recipes