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 salmonTrusted Source 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