* Spawned naturally: They were born in freshwater rivers and streams and hatched from eggs laid by their parents.
* Fed naturally: They forage for food on their own in the wild, eating insects, plankton, and other small organisms.
* Migrated naturally: They journeyed between freshwater and saltwater, typically swimming downstream to the ocean to grow and then returning upstream to spawn.
Here are some key characteristics of wild salmon:
* Higher fat content: Wild salmon tend to have higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids and other beneficial fats due to their diet.
* More flavorful: Wild salmon often have a more intense flavor profile compared to farmed salmon.
* Sustainable: Wild salmon populations are managed through fishing regulations and conservation efforts.
* Environmentally friendly: Wild salmon farming practices typically have less environmental impact than farmed salmon, though there are some concerns about overfishing and habitat loss.
However, wild salmon also have some drawbacks:
* Limited availability: Wild salmon populations are naturally smaller than farmed populations, which means they can be more expensive and harder to find.
* Seasonal availability: Wild salmon are typically available during specific seasons when they are migrating and spawning.
In contrast to wild salmon, "farmed salmon" are raised in controlled environments:
* Hatchery-raised: They are hatched in controlled environments, and their eggs are often artificially fertilized.
* Fed a diet of pellets: They are fed a diet of formulated pellets, which can be made from fish meal and other ingredients.
* Live in enclosed pens: They are raised in enclosed pens, often in coastal waters or inland lakes.
Understanding the difference between wild and farmed salmon can help you make informed choices about your seafood consumption.