Salmon is known for being a flavorful type of seafood with many health benefits, including an abundance of protein and Omega-3 fatty acids. However, it’s essential to know what type you’re purchasing since products like wild Alaskan smoked salmon and farm-raised salmon offer different qualities.

The Difference Between Wild & Farmed Salmon

How Fish Are Raised

Farmed salmon come from underwater farms where fish are specifically bred and raised for consumption. They’re kept in a contained environment and given processed foods and antibiotics until they grow to a size where they can be sold. Wild salmon live freely in open bodies of water and eat their natural diet of small fish, shrimp, squid, and insects.

Taste & Appearance

Salmon are meant to have a varying diet of other wild fish and sea creatures, which is part of what gives them a rich, orange color and signature salmon flavor. Since farm-raised salmon are fed a set diet of processed food, they don’t taste quite as strong, and their color isn’t as vibrant.

Environmental Impact

Fish farms use equipment and chemicals, which can lead to water pollution and contamination. Obtaining wild salmon only requires fishing in natural bodies of water. However, certain types of Atlantic wild salmon are in short supply, so wild Alaskan smoked salmon and other seafood from the West Coast are more sustainable options.

If you want to try wild Alaskan smoked salmon, check out the products from Alaska Sausage & Seafood. Based in Anchorage, the company ships gourmet sausages and smoked seafood across the United States. In business since 1963, the family-owned company also provides gift baskets full of curated items for local pickup and delivery. View a full selection of wild Alaskan smoked salmon on the company’s website, or call (907) 562-3636 to inquire about specific products.