Shrimp is a generally nutritious food high in several vitamins and minerals, such as protein. A 100-gram (g) serving of cooked shrimp contains around 24 g of protein.

Shrimp is a nutritious type of seafood that people can easily incorporate into various dishes. It is a good source of vitamins and protein but is also high in cholesterol. As such, it is important for people to eat an appropriate amount as part of a balanced diet.

Some types of shrimp that fisheries can sustainably manage and harvest under United States regulations include pink, white, and brown shrimp.

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According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), 100 g of cooked shrimp contains 24 gTrusted Source of protein. Although shrimp come in several varieties, they all contain similar amounts of protein.

Shrimp and other seafood contain high quality protein, and shrimp is among the most protein-richTrusted Source kinds of seafood.

Research in a 2020 review suggests that shrimp protein is of higher quality than milk and other animal-sourced proteins. However, they are an allergen and may be harder to absorb than other types.

Not only is shrimp high in protein, but it also contains various other nutrients. For example, 84 g shrimp containsTrusted Source 4% of a person’s daily recommended intake (DRI) for vitamins A and C, as well as 6% and 10% of the DRI for calcium and iron.

Shrimp is also low in calories, fats, and carbohydrates but high in cholesterol. The nutritional information for 100 gTrusted Source of cooked shrimp is as follows:

Shrimp also contains omega-3 fatty acids and selenium.

As a food source that is low in calories, carbs, and fats but high in protein, shrimp can be useful to help people meet certain macronutrient needs or if they follow a low carb or low calorie diet.

Shrimp also contains polyunsaturated fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and may protect against certain chronic and metabolic conditions.

Shrimp also contains astaxanthin. According to a 2021 review, this compound has properties that may have therapeutic effects against various conditions, including:

Similar to other seafood and shellfish, shrimp also contains iodine and zinc.

Iodine is an essential mineral that helps the thyroid and plays a role in a person’s cognitive functioning and development — their ability to think. Zinc is another essential mineral that affectsTrusted Source immune function, DNA synthesis, and wound healing.

While shrimp possesses some health benefits, it may also provide some health concerns, particularly if a person is allergic to shellfish.

According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, around 7 million Americans have a shellfish allergy. Allergy to crustaceans is more common than mollusks, with shrimp being the most common shellfish allergen.

Shellfish allergies occur when proteins in the shellfish cause the immune system to overreact. Symptoms can vary among individuals but may include vomiting, stomach pain, and shortness of breath.

Shrimp is also a high dietary source of cholesterol. As a result, some people may avoid or limit their shrimp intake due to potential health concerns.

However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, some typesTrusted Source of cholesterol are essential for health.

While some people may want to monitor their cholesterol intake, a 2022 review suggests there is no direct correlation between dietary cholesterol and blood cholesterol levels.

Some evidence actually associates shrimp and seafood with a favorable effect on lipid levels,

Shrimp is a versatile protein source that people can include in various meals.

People can also prepare shrimp in several ways, such as grilling, sautéing, or steaming. However, a 2020 animal study suggests that frying shrimp may reduce the levels of various fatty acids, including polyunsaturated fatty acids, more than other cooking methods.

People can purchase shrimp fresh or frozen. To properly thaw frozen shrimp, people can place it in the refrigerator overnight to slowly melt the ice.

Alternatively, people can thaw shrimp in a leakproof bag submerged in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. If cooking the shrimp immediately, people can thaw it in a microwave.

People should also remember to peel and devein shrimp and ensure they are cooked before consuming. Shrimp is ready to eat when it is opaque and develops a reddish-coral color.

Some examples of meals with shrimp include:

Other animal-based foods that contain high amounts of protein include:

  • chicken
  • pork
  • beef
  • eggs
  • dairy
  • fish
  • Greek yogurt
  • cheese

Vegan and vegetarian options that are high in protein include:

  • soy, such as tofu, tempeh, and edamame
  • seitan
  • legumes like beans and lentils
  • quinoa
  • mycoprotein
  • nuts and seeds

Shrimp is a useful source of dietary protein that people can include in a balanced diet.

In addition to being protein-rich, it is also nutrient-dense and low in carbohydrates, fats, and calories but high in cholesterol. However, dietary cholesterol may not have a direct link to a person’s blood cholesterol levels.

Some people with certain health risks may wish to limit their cholesterol intake, but they can discuss this and other dietary changes with their doctor.