National Seafood Month
Ellie Wilson
MS, RDN
Does this sound familiar? It is 4 PM, and you have no idea what to make for dinner. What you do know is you want it to be quick, easy, delicious, and good for you. Seafood may be your new best friend – versatile and vital, full of essential nutrients and easy to season, it can be a big deal for a special evening or a freezer-to-plate problem solver.
Less than 20% of Americans eat the recommended amount of se afood #2XPerWeek, but that is starting to change as culinary curiosity and positive health benefit research across the life span continues to grow. As a group, seafood is nutrient dense, meaning it packs a variety of nutrients into each nourishing bite, depending on the species. Lean protein, brain and heart-health promoting omega-3 fats; vitamins A, B and D, as well as minerals selenium, zinc, iodine, iron, calcium and phosphorous. Together they bring a lot of value in an easy-to-cook package!
Seafood, especially in the Northeast, has a historical role in feeding the indigenous peoples of America, and then European settlers when they arrived. As stated by author Barton Seaver, “seafood was the first economy this country founded, and upon which we took our first steps toward economic and political freedom.” ₁ This was fueled in part by the robust access to North Atlantic cod and intersected with the seeking of religious freedom. Fasting days, which included seafood traditions, were over 150 per year in some religious calendars, and underpinned immigration for religious freedom to the New World for many. Immigration throughout American history has brought many from cultures where seafood was a fundamental element of their cuisine. Seafood was also a mainstay during the World Wars, when other foods were rationed to support troops. Seasonality also has a role – the seas come alive in spring, in time for Lent, the most popular time of year to eat seafood.
The advancement of technology and processing has expanded the options we have for seafood – many of the varieties we carry are wild caught, processed and fresh frozen at sea to maintain the highest quality of delicate flavor and texture. Market 32 frozen filets are individually wrapped in the package, ensuring you can make one or all and enjoy the same great experience. Frozen seafood can be cooked in about 15 minutes, right out of the freezer, so is a perfect staple for busy days. Market 32 Shrimp and Scallops come in various sizes, ready to defrost and enjoy or perfectly prepped to make your favorite recipe. Lobster and crab are the highest quality, and wonderful to bring to a table full of friends and family!
Check out the great sales and watch for recipes and finspiration throughout October, National Seafood Month.
#EatMoreSeafoodAmerica!