Keta salmon, also known as chum salmon or dog salmon, is a remarkable species prized for its abundance and versatility. Wild Alaska keta salmon are also intrinsically tied to subsistence fishing in rural Alaska. Families in Alaska’s coastal communities depend on subsistence salmon fishing to survive. This article explores the nutritional value, physical characteristics, harvesting methods, and conservation status of keta salmon, while also providing tips on how to prepare it.
What is Keta Salmon?
Keta salmon (Oncorhynchus keta) belongs to the Salmonidae family. Colors vary depending on life stage. When in the ocean, they have a metallic greenish-blue back, silver sides, and a white belly. As for their body shape, keta salmon are streamlined with a slightly elongated body, tapering towards the tail. Keta salmon also have an adipose fin, a small fleshy fin located between the dorsal fin and the tail. Finally, keta salmon have sharp, well-developed teeth. Keta salmon are known for their remarkable homing instinct.
Nutritional Profile of Keta Salmon
Keta salmon, like other salmon species, is known for its nutritional value. A 3 ½ oz baked or broiled serving of Keta wild Alaskan salmon contains 150 Calories. The macronutrient breakdown is 0% carbs, 30% fat, and 70% protein. This is a good source of protein (46% of your Daily Value).
Here's a detailed breakdown of the nutritional content per 3 ½ oz (100g) serving:
- Calories: 150
- Fats: 5g (6% Daily Value)
- Saturated fats: 1g (5% Daily Value)
- Trans fats: 0g
- Cholesterol: 95mg (32% Daily Value)
- Sodium: 65mg (3% Daily Value)
- Carbs: 0g (0% Daily Value)
- Net carbs: 0g
- Fiber: 0g (0% Daily Value)
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 26g
- Calcium: 20mg (2% Daily Value)
- Iron: 1mg (9% Daily Value)
Wild keta salmon also provide marine-derived omega-3 fatty acids, essential to the human body. 1366 mg omega 3 per serving. Wild Alaska keta salmon are also prized for their roe. The rich eggs are packed with omega-3 fatty acids and possess a deep resonating flavor which has especially endeared it to international consumers.
Read also: Sockeye and Keta Salmon: Key Differences Explained.
Harvesting and Availability
Keta salmon have specific seasons and methods for harvesting. They have distinct seasonal runs when they return from the ocean to their natal rivers to spawn. Keta salmon are harvested through various methods, including commercial fishing, sport fishing, and subsistence fishing. The specific methods can vary depending on the location and regulations in place. Commercial fishermen often use gillnets, purse seines, or drift nets to catch keta salmon. Find Alaska keta salmon in your local grocer in the frozen section as well as in the fresh case seasonally. Unsure about origin?
Cooking with Keta Salmon
Keta salmon boasts lean yet dense meat, cooked best under lower temperatures. You’ll find the best keta salmon recipes are baked, broiled, grilled, poached, roasted, or steamed.
General Cooking Instructions:Remove all packaging before cooking. Size and thickness of portion will vary. Cooking appliance power varies from model to model, so consult your manual and adjust cooking time accordingly.
Thawing Instructions:
- Refrigerated thawing: Remove all packaging. Place portions in a covered dish and thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Rapid thawing: Remove all packaging. Place portions in a resealable bag. Immerse the sealed bag in a bowl of water in your sink and thaw under a thin trickle of cold running water for approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
Cooking Methods:
Bake:
- Preheat oven to 375 degree F.
- Place thawed portions on a lightly oiled low-rimmed baking pan.
- Brush portion with oil and season as desired.
- Bake portions for 8 to 10 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork.
Pan Fry:
- Preheat lightly oiled, nonstick frying pan to medium high heat.
- Fry thawed portions 4 to 4-1/2 minutes per side or until fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Season as desired.
Conservation and Sustainability
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) currently classifies keta salmon as a species of least concern in terms of conservation status. However, it's essential to monitor and manage their populations to ensure their long-term sustainability, as keta salmon transport nutrients from the ocean to freshwater systems, contributing to the fertility of rivers and surrounding habitats. Managers in Alaska set ‘escapement goals’ using the best science available to ensure enough fish return safely to the freshwater spawning grounds to reproduce. Fisheries management authorities and organizations implement regulations and quotas to maintain sustainable harvesting levels of keta salmon. Protecting the spawning and rearing habitats of keta salmon is crucial for their survival and overall ecosystem health. Another concern in keta fishing practices is bycatch, the unintentional capture of non-target species during fishing operations. Perhaps the most significant challenge keta salmon face is climate change, affecting water temperature, ocean currents, and food availability.
Read also: Keta Salmon: A Comprehensive Guide
Socio-Economic Importance
Wild Alaska keta salmon are not only important ecologically, but they are also intrinsically tied to subsistence fishing in rural Alaska. Families in Alaska’s coastal communities depend on subsistence salmon fishing to survive.
Read also: Healthy Keta Salmon Dishes