Health & Nutrition

Healthy Lifestyles
Begin with Alaska Seafood​

Alaska seafood offers a naturally nutritious foundation for health-focused menus across the Middle East, North Africa, and West Africa.

Rich in high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals, Alaska’s wild species support a range of wellness goals while delivering clean, premium flavor.

 

Get the Wild Alaska Seafood Nutritional Values pdf

Nutrition Information

Explore the nutritional benefits found in a standard three-ounce serving of Alaska’s most popular wild seafood.

Omega-3s

Alaska seafood boasts high levels of the long chain omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, found especially in salmon and sablefish. These differ from the Omega-3s available in plants. Eating seafood is one of the only practical ways to increase these important nutrients.

Vitamin D​

While few foods naturally contain vitamin D, seafood offers one of the most significant food sources of vitamin D which is critical for brain health, bone health and reduced risk of cancer, diabetes and heart disease. Find this nutrient in salmon, halibut, rockfish and sole.

Protein

High-quality protein plays a role in healing, protecting bone health and maintaining muscle mass. Proteins from animal and fish sources are complete, while those from plants tend to be incomplete – find healthy proteins across all Alaska seafood species.

More high-quality nutrients

B vitamins

Seafood is also a significant source of B vitamins – niacin, B6 and B12 – which are essential for functions including energy production at the cellular level, creating and repairing DNA, and reducing inflammation. Alaska salmon, white fish and shellfish are all excellent sources of vitamin B-12.

Potassium

Helps to control blood pressure and risk your risk of stroke.

Vitamin A

Regulates growth and specialization of most of the body’s cells, as well as supporting embryonic and fetal development, eye development and function, and immune responses.

Selenium

Protects bone health, decreases thyroid antibodies in people with autoimmune thyroid disease and may reduce the risk of cancer. It also protects against mercury toxicity.

Iron, Copper, and Zinc

Necessary for a range of bodily functions including wound healing, oxygen transportation, immune function, and cellular growth.

Benefits of seafood

A diet that includes wild Alaska seafood offers natural nutritional support for everyday wellbeing. Rich in omega-3s, vitamins, and clean protein, Alaska species fit easily into regional cooking styles and health-conscious lifestyles across the Middle East and Africa.

Heart Health

Heart Health

Wild Alaska seafood is naturally rich in long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, which help maintain normal heart function. For chefs and menu developers, it offers a clean, premium protein that supports wellness-focused dining trends across the region.

Boosting Mood

Boosting Mood

The DHA and EPA found in Alaska seafood contribute to normal brain function, supporting menus designed for cognitive and emotional wellbeing. These nutrients are especially valued in hotels, corporate wellness programs, and educational catering.

Brain Health

Brain Health

Alaska seafood delivers essential nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D, which play a role in supporting normal cognitive health. Its clean taste and versatile formats make it easy for operators to integrate into brain-healthy menu options.

Healthy Moms & Babies

Healthy Moms & Babies

Alaska seafood provides DHA, iodine, selenium, and lean protein, nutrients important for pregnancy and early development. Retailers and foodservice operators offering family-focused or maternity-friendly ranges often highlight these naturally occurring benefits.

Immune Function

Immune Function

Omega-3s and essential trace minerals found in Alaska seafood help support the body’s normal immune function. This makes Alaska species a strong fit for balanced menus in healthcare, hospitality, and premium retail programs.

Healthy Vision

Healthy Vision

DHA and vitamin D in wild Alaska seafood contribute to maintaining normal vision. These nutrients make Alaska seafood a natural choice for health-led dishes and retail ranges targeting balanced, nutrient-dense eating.

Healthy Gut

Healthy Gut

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fats in Alaska seafood help support normal digestive health and contribute to a balanced gut environment. This aligns well with regional demand for clean, minimally processed ingredients that promote overall wellbeing.

Inflammation

Inflammation

A diet that includes omega-3-rich foods such as Alaska seafood can help support the body’s normal inflammatory response. Chefs can use Alaska seafood to develop menus suited to active lifestyles and modern wellness trends.

Diabetes

Diabetes

Low in saturated fat and high in lean protein, many Alaska species fit well into structured dietary plans recommended for individuals managing diabetes. This positions Alaska seafood as a strong option for healthcare catering and health-oriented menus.

Healthy Diet

Healthy Diet

Rich in essential nutrients, naturally lean, and free from additives, Alaska seafood supports a wide range of health-focused culinary programs. Its clean flavor and versatility make it ideal for premium hotels, restaurants, and retail brands across the region.

Ready to Discover Alaska Seafood?

Alaska’s cold, expansive waters are home to a wide range of wild species, from salmon and whitefish to crab and shellfish, each offering distinctive flavor, texture, and culinary versatility for professional kitchens across the region.

Boosting Mood

Mood Boosting Benefits of Alaska Seafood

The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, EPA and DHA, help to protect, restore and rebuild the brain.

The connection between diet and brain health has been well documented, and omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, can change your brain and help to improve your mood.

Wild Alaska seafood is one of the world’s most significant sources of EPA and DHA.

Alaska Seafood for Boosting Mood

  • Depression appears less in countries that have a high consumption of seafood.
  • Reduced rates of depression, including postpartum depression, has been linked with consumption of seafood.
  • Though still unclear, it is likely that seafood’s positive impact on depression rates is due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Consuming wild Alaska seafood rich in omega-3 fatty acids boosts serotonin in the brain, helping prevent many mood imbalances and disorders.
  • A nutrient-dense diet that is high in fatty fish reduces symptoms of depression.
  • It is recommended to consume fatty fish, such as wild Alaska salmon, twice a week to get adequate amounts of EPA and DHA.

Brain Health

Brain Health & Preventing Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia

The link between seafood and brain health is clear.

Consuming a nutrient-dense diet that includes wild Alaska seafood ensures adequate intake of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D that can boost brain health. Alaska seafood is also known for its anti-inflammatory and nerve cell protective effects and can reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, cognitive decline, depression, perinatal depression and anxiety.

Seafood = Brain food

Reduced Inflammation

EPA & DHA reduces small proteins in the brain that promote inflammation and are associated with depression, Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline.

Perinatal Depression

Research has shown a clear link between low blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids and increased rates of postpartum depression. Every 1% increase in DHA in the blood is associated with a 59% reduction of depressive symptoms in pregnant mothers.

Reduced Risk of Alzheimer’s and Dementia

Increased levels of EPA & DHA in the blood are proven to decrease one’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Brain Growth

Increased levels of EPA & DHA in the blood are associated with increases in gray matter, brain volume and improved cognition. As the dominant fatty acid in the brain, DHA, has the ability to turn on the growth of new brain cells and can protect and enhance the function of the existing ones.

Preserving Brain Function

Vitamin D plays a neuroprotective role. Low levels of vitamin D are often associated with symptoms of depression, anxiety, mental health disorders and cognitive decline.

Preventing Alzheimer's Disease & Dementia with Alaska Seafood

Consuming wild Alaska seafood that is rich in omega-3’s has been proven to decrease the risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Given that 60% of our brains are made up of fat, omega-3 fatty acids are among the most important molecules that determine your brain’s integrity and ability to perform.

  • Alaska Seafood is one of the world’s best marine derived sources of the omega-3’s EPA and DHA.
  • Consuming seafood as little as once per week decreases risk for both Alzheimer’s and dementia.
  • Increased intake of EPA and DHA from seafood increases the production of new brain cells and reduces risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s.
  • Omega-3 fatty acids reduce brain inflammation that leads to cognitive decline.
  • Omega-3 fatty acids enhance the body’s ability to clear brain plagues.
  • The potent effects of DHA are especially protective against genetic risks for Alzheimer’s.
  • Many Alaska species are high in EPA and DHA including Alaska salmon, sablefish, herring, rockfish, and cod.

Moms & Babies

Alaska Seafood for Healthy Moms and Babies During Pregnancy

When a woman is pregnant or lactating, it is vital that her diet include enough DHA to ensure optimal brain, eye, immune and nervous system for her developing baby.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids, DHA and EPA, are essential fats that must be consumed in the diet as our bodies cannot produce these on their own. Consuming enough omega-3’s can also lower an infant’s chances of developing asthma or other allergic conditions. Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids play a role in the length of gestation and in preventing perinatal depression.

  • The omega-3 fatty acid DHA is especially important for expectant mothers and developing babies.
  • DHA remains important beyond delivery as DHA is critical for brain development from pregnancy until the age of two.
  • Guidelines recommend that women consume 200 mg per day of DHA during pregnancy/breastfeeding.
  • Consuming at least four ounces of seafood rich in omega-3’s, twice per week to meet the needs of both mom and baby.
  • Diets should include wild Alaska seafood sources high in omega-3’s such as salmon, sablefish, herring, crab, and rockfish,
  • Many Alaska seafood species are low in mercury, and are also high in selenium, which prevents mercury from acting in the body.

Alaska Seafood and Infant Nutrition

The omega-3 fatty acid DHA is essential for the growth and development of a baby’s central nervous system, brain, and the retina in utero.

Infants and toddlers should consume optimal levels of DHA through breastmilk and a diet containing foods rich in DHA including wild Alaska salmon, sablefish, herring, crab, and rockfish at least twice a week.

  • Adequate DHA consumption improves visual acuity as well as cognitive development in children.
  • The third trimester is when the most significant amount of brain development occurs, and DHA is transferred at an even higher rate from mother to baby.
  • For optimal DHA intake, a mother should consume 200 mg of DHA per day during pregnancy/ breastfeeding.
  • Infants and toddlers should also consume optimal levels of DHA through breastmilk and a diet containing foods rich in DHA.
  • Including wild Alaska seafood high in omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon, sablefish, herring, rockfish, and cod at least twice a week will help to ensure optimal brain, nerve and retinal development in children.

Immune Function

Alaska Seafood & Immune Function

Whether you’re young or old, seafood omega-3s may tone down overactive immune responses, making your symptoms of inflammation less severe.

For example, seafood omega-3s may promote immune system maturation in infancy and lessen the symptoms of childhood allergies or delay their onset. Research also suggests that increased omega-3 consumption may ease the symptoms of some inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, certain allergies and digestive disorders.

Nutrients Associated with Wild Alaska Seafood and Immunity

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are well known for their anti-inflammatory properties, but evidence also supports that omega-3 fatty acids are an essential component of a healthy immune system. Omega 3 fatty acids have the ability to generate specialized pro-solving lipid mediators (SPMs), which play an important function in downregulating the immune response and resolving inflammation after the body’s immune system has performed its purpose.

Wild Alaska seafood is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, especially salmon, sablefish, salmon and herring.  Current guidelines recommend that Americans consume 8-ounces of seafood per week in order to consume adequate amounts.

 

Zinc

Zinc plays a critical role in host defenses against infections and deficiency will often result in suppressed immune function. Most people consuming a typical Western diet do not consume adequate amounts of zinc and should consider increasing zinc-rich food sources in their diet.

Oysters are one of the world’s greatest sources of zinc, providing 291% of the daily value. Other Alaska seafood such as crab, clams, mussels, and shrimp are also rich in zinc and are considered to be good sources.

 

Selenium

Selenium is one of the most crucial nutrients for maintaining and improving immune function. It provides powerful antioxidant protection to the body via the selenium containing enzyme, glutathione peroxidase. This antioxidant helps to reduce oxidative stress and to minimize damaging free radicals in the body.

Wild Alaska seafood, including halibut, rockfish and salmon, is one of the best food sources of selenium and is considered to be an excellent source of selenium.

Selenium RDA (Recommended Daily Allowance or Daily Value) = 55mcg

  • 3 oz rockfish has 65 mcg or 118% DV (daily value)
  • 3 oz Razor clam has 54 mcg, or 99% DV
  • 3 oz Dungeness has 41 mcg, or 75% DV (king and snow crab are also very high, 34 and 38 mcg respectively)
  • 3 oz halibut has 47 mcg or 85% DV
  • 3 oz of both king and keta salmon have 40 mcg, or 73% DV

 

Vitamin D

Vitamin D plays a role in the immune response to infection by triggering the production of a peptide that exerts antimicrobial activity against intracellular bacteria. Low vitamin D status, which is common in the United States, increases susceptibility to infection. Wild Alaska seafood is one of the few food sources of this nutrient that is so important for immune function.

All forms of wild Alaska seafood including all varieties of salmon and white fish are considered to be excellent sources.

Vitamin D RDA =600 IU (15 mcg)

  • 3 oz Serving of Coho Salmon has 383 IU (9.6mcg), or 64% of RDA (DV)
  • 3 oz Sockeye has 14.2 mcg, or 95% DV
  • 3 oz Pink Salmon has 11mcg, or 73% DV
  • 3 oz Halibut has 5mcg or 33% DV

 

Vitamin A 

Vitamin A plays a role in immune function and enhances the capacity of epithelial tissue to resist invasion by pathogenic bacteria. Foods such as deep orange or red vegetables are traditionally considered when considering vitamin A food sources. However, seafood can also contribute Vitamin A to the diet.

Alaska sea cucumber is an excellent source, and razor clams and rockfish are considered to be good sources.

Glutamine 

Glutamine is an amino acid that is found in greater quantities in the body than any other amino acid. It is crucial for maintaining optimal antioxidant status, intestinal health, and is known for powering immune cells. Alaska seafood is a good source of glutamine.

Other Nutrients

Other nutrients to support immunity include Vitamin E, Vitamin A, vitamin C, prebiotics and probiotics and other antioxidants such as N-acetyl cysteine and alpha-lipoic acid.

Healthy Vision

Healthy Vision and Alaska Seafood

One of the many benefits of consuming wild Alaska seafood is how this nutrient-rich food contributes to vision and eye health.

Eye Development

During fetal development and the first few weeks of life the eye becomes enriched with beneficial omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA, abundant in Alaska seafood. As an adult, eating a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids continues to benefit vision.

Prevention of Eye Disease

DHA is found in very concentrated quantities in the retina, the part of the eye that is responsible for visual recognition. If a person does not consume adequate amounts of this fatty acid, they are more susceptible to diseases that impact the retina. These include macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa, retinal vein or retinal artery occlusions, and diabetic retinopathy.

 

It is important to note that the optimal intake of DHA will not reverse retinal damage, so it is vital to consume adequate amounts of DHA as a preventative strategy for good eye health. Wild Alaska seafood also contains other key nutrients shown to slow macular degeneration, including zinc and vitamin A.

Relief from Pressure and Dryness

In people who have diets low in essential fatty acids, other eye ailments can occur. These include improper drainage of intraocular fluid, resulting in increased eye pressure and glaucoma. Last, studies have proven that increases in omega-3 fatty acids help relieve dry eye syndrome, an increasingly common issue where the eye does not lubricate correctly.

Inflammation

Alaska Seafood & Inflammation

Chronic low-grade inflammation is constant and often goes unnoticed.

Inflammation occurs when unwanted substances (toxins, excess fat cells, etc.) build up, contributing to many diseases.

Eating foods high in omega-3s like wild Alaska seafood is among the best dietary countermeasures, due to the anti-inflammatory properties present.

  • Eating a whole food diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation.
  • Studies have shown that omega-3s have shown anti-inflammatory effects.
  • The best dietary sources of omega-3s come from fatty fish, like wild Alaska salmon, halibut, herring, and sablefish.
  • To reduce inflammation, consume 4 ounces of wild Alaska seafood rich in omega-3s twice a week.

Diabetes

Diabetes Prevention and Reduction

Consumption of wild Alaska seafood is a valuable source of nutrition for individuals living with diabetes for a number of reasons.

Promotes Stable Blood Sugar

First, wild Alaska seafood is an excellent source of high quality protein and contains no carbohydrates. Because of this, when incorporated into balanced meals, seafood promotes blood sugar stability and satiety.

Provides Vital Nutrients

Wild Alaska seafood is also abundant in vital nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, zinc, and selenium.

Prevention

Vitamin D plays an important role in insulin secretion, and inadequate levels can lead to blood sugar imbalances. In individuals with lower vitamin D levels, there is an increased risk of developing diabetes and glucose intolerance. Research has shown that adequate vitamin D levels early in life reduce the risk of developing type 1 diabetes. In addition, foods which are high in omega-3 fatty acids, like Alaska seafood, have been shown to improve glucose metabolism which reduces the chances of developing insulin resistance or diabetes.

Reduces Risk of Secondary Heart Disease

Wild Alaska seafood is one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids in the world. Omega-3 fatty acids are powerful anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Individuals living with diabetes have a three to fourfold increase in risk of cardiovascular disease, including coronary heart disease, compared to the general population.  Studies have proven that the consumption of fatty fish reduces the risk of dying from coronary heart disease. A diet high in omega-3 fatty acids also lowers serum triglyceride levels, which can be elevated in individuals who have persistently elevated blood sugar levels.

Healthy Diet

What do all of today’s diets have in common? Seafood

Whether you follow one diet strictly, or find balance in following multiple, seafood is the common key protein in your diet!

Find out how Alaska seafood is the perfect fit in all these diets:

Pescatarian

Wild Alaska seafood is loaded omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B12, with many types also being rich in vitamin D and zinc which can be common deficiencies in pescatarian diets.

Gluten free

Gluten free diets can often be deficient in nutrients such as vitamin D, selenium, and calcium. Including Wild Alaska seafood can help to ensure adequate intake of these valuable nutrients.

Mediterranean

Wild Alaska seafood is a source of high-quality protein that contributes essential omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA and DHA, found exclusively in marine species. Wild Alaska seafood also provides nutrients such as vitamin D, B vitamins, selenium, zinc, and many more.

Paleo

Wild Alaska seafood is a source of high-quality protein that provides vital nutrients for a Paleo diet such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, selenium, and vitamin D. Canned salmon with bones is an good source of calcium, which can often be deficient in paleo diets.

Keto

Wild Alaska seafood provides vital nutrients for people following a ketogenic diet such as omega-3 fatty acids, lean protein, vitamin B12, vitamin D, and selenium. Additionally, canned wild Alaska salmon with bones is a good source of calcium.

Dash

Wild Alaska seafood is low in sodium, saturated fat and trans-fat, and high in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Alaska seafood also provides lean protein, potassium, calcium, vitamin D, selenium, and vitamin B12.

Flexitarian

Wild Alaska seafood provides key nutrients for diets where meat is eaten occasionally. These include lean protein, essential omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, zinc, vitamin D, and vitamin B12. Consume 4-ounces of wild Alaska seafood twice per week.

Volumetrics

Wild Alaska seafood that is low in fat and calories is a nutrient-dense and satisfying addition to this eating pattern. Wild Alaska seafood such as cod, pollock, rockfish, sole/flounder, crab, and more provide lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, selenium, and potassium.

Mayo Clinic

Wild Alaska seafood is a lean source of satisfying protein high in omega-3 fatty acids and low in saturated fat. It also contributes vital nutrients such as selenium, vitamin B12, and vitamin D.

Nordic

Wild Alaska seafood favorites of this diet include salmon and herring for their rich omega-3 fatty acid content and quality protein. Alaska seafood also provides vitamin D, B vitamins, selenium, potassium, and zinc.

TLC

Wild Alaska seafood contains nutrients to support optimal heart health, such as omega-3 fatty acids. It also provides lean protein, vitamin D, B vitamins, selenium, potassium, and zinc. Eat 4-ounces of fatty fish twice per week, for people both with and without coronary heart disease.