Wild Salmon:
* Pacific Salmon: These are the most popular types of wild salmon, including Chinook, Sockeye, Coho, Pink, and Chum. They are found in the Pacific Ocean, from Alaska to California.
* Atlantic Salmon: Found in the North Atlantic Ocean, these salmon are typically smaller than their Pacific counterparts. They are popular in Europe and North America.
Farmed Salmon:
* Atlantic Salmon: The vast majority of farmed salmon is Atlantic salmon. This industry is concentrated in Norway, Chile, and Scotland, but farms are found in many other countries.
* Pacific Salmon: There are also some farms that raise Chinook, Coho, and Pink salmon. These farms are mainly located in the Pacific Northwest.
Where Your Salmon Comes From:
To know the specific origin of your salmon, look for labels that indicate:
* Wild-caught: Indicates the salmon was caught in the wild, not raised in a farm.
* Farmed: Indicates the salmon was raised in a controlled environment.
* Country of origin: Tells you where the salmon was caught or farmed.
* Specific region: Sometimes, the label will indicate a specific region or river where the salmon was caught.
Sustainability:
When choosing salmon, consider sustainability:
* Wild-caught: Wild salmon fisheries should be managed sustainably to avoid overfishing.
* Farmed: Farmed salmon can have environmental impacts, such as pollution and escapees. Look for certifications like ASC or BAP, which indicate the farm follows responsible practices.
By looking for these labels and understanding the sources of salmon, you can make informed choices about where your salmon comes from and support sustainable practices.