Salmon is probably the healthiest fish in existence. It is filled with healthy omega-3 fatty acids and other beneficial nutrients. However, all forms of salmon were not created equal.
While raw salmon is highly coveted, canned salmon is not.
Canned salmon is the underdog. Most people stroll past the canned salmon and reach for canned tuna.
However, canned salmon is just as affordable, nutritious, and versatile as tuna.
One of the reasons people might be apprehensive about using canned salmon is that they do not know if it is cooked or raw.
Contents
Is Canned Salmon Actually Salmon?
Some folks do not believe canned salmon is actually salmon. They believe canned salmon is mystery meat that’s been manufactured to look like salmon.
However, contrary to popular belief, canned salmon is actually salmon. However, just like there are many different types of steaks, there are many types of salmon.
There are 6 primary types of salmon in North America.
These include king salmon or chinook, pink salmon, coho, Atlantic salmon, chum, and sockeye salmon.
Each type of salmon has a different flavor, texture, and look. Salmon’s color can range from pale pink to a rich orange-red color.
Salmon’s fat levels can range from low-fat to very oil. The flavor can also be mild or strong.
Nearly all canned salmon is produced from wild-caught Alaskan salmon. In particular, most containers of canned salmon will be labeled pink or red salmon.
Furthermore, you can look on the back of the ingredient list and see that salmon is actually listed on the ingredient list.
Nevertheless, canned salmon can be a great addition to your diet.
However, make sure you purchase wild-caught canned salmon that was harvested sustainably.
Is Canned Salmon Already Cooked?
Everyone knows that salmon can be eaten raw. But can it be canned raw?
There are some types of fish that are canned raw.
These canned fish may contain parasites that are bot neutralized during the canning process. However, salmon is not one of these types of fish.
One of the biggest misconceptions about canned salmon is that it is raw or old salmon.
However, this myth couldn’t be further from the truth. Canned salmon is 100% cooked.
However, it is not cooked in the way most people think it is.
Most people assume if the salmon is cooked on the stove or in the oven, then canned, but the salmon cooks during canning.
Essentially, raw salmon is placed into 8 oz. or 4oz. cans while they are being processed and packaged. This is how the net weight of the salmon is determined.
The cans of salmon are placed into large industrial-sized steam pressure canners.
Next, the salmon is vented to eliminate the excess air trapped inside each individual can and preheat the salmon.
The salmon is vented for 18 minutes at or above 225°F.
However, venting the salmon does not cook it. Therefore, there are a few more steps involved in the canning process.
Once the salmon is preheated, 8 oz. cans are processed at 225°F for 70 minutes. In contrast, 4 oz. cans of salmon are processed at 245°f for 43 minutes.
Therefore, because it is exposed to so much heat over a long time, there is no way canned salmon can remain in its raw state.
Can You Eat Canned Salmon Raw?
As I mentioned above, canned salmon is already cooked. Therefore, the question is whether you can eat salmon as it is once you crack the jar open.
Most people do not consume raw meat or seafood because it can cause foodborne illnesses such as Salmonella and Listeria.
However, the heat treatment neutralizes bacteria that could multiply and cause food poisoning.
Furthermore, salt is also added to the salmon. Salt can also neutralize bacteria and prevent them from rapidly multiplying.
Nevertheless, there are multiple ways you can use canned salmon without cooking it any further.
You can use canned salmon just like tuna and make a salmon salad or add it to a pasta salad.
Can You Cook Canned Salmon?
You can also cook canned salmon even though it is already cooked.
You can make salmon croquettes or salmon patties, or burgers from canned salmon.
Simply add a little seasoning, herbs, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and breadcrumbs, shape your salmon into patties or any shape you desire, and cook your salmon.
How Long Does Canned Salmon Stay Fresh?
One of the most attractive things about canned foods is that they are non-perishable, so they can last for a long time.
How long salmon stays fresh can vary depending on the type of salmon you purchase.
In addition to this, the salmon’s brand and how long you store it before you eat it can also affect the shelf life of salmon.
For example, purchasing a lower-quality canned salmon will probably have a shorter shelf life than high-quality canned salmon.
Most canned salmon will last 2-4 months after they have been canned. However, some types of canned salmon can remain fresh for a few years.
How To Tell I if Canned Salmon Is Bad?
Smelling the canned salmon is the easiest way to determine if it is rotten or fresh.
Spoiled canned salmon will have a rancid odor that makes you revolt in disgust. Throw the salmon in the trash immediately.
Another way to identify spoiled salmon is to look at the color. Salmon’s color will get duller over time.
While a dull color is not indicative of rotten salmon, it’s best to toss it immediately just to be on the same side.
Final Thoughts
Although salmon is often overlooked and overshadowed by tuna, however, canned salmon is a healthy, sustainable way to add fish to your diet.
Since salmon is already cooked, you can eat it as is or cook it in another recipe.
Nevertheless, you will satisfy your salmon cravings, and it won’t cost too much money. So, add a couple of cans of canned salmon to your cart the next time you are in the grocery store.
You might also be interested in the following:
- Is Tofu Already Cooked
- Is Corned Beef Already Cooked
- Is Smoked Sausage Already Cooked
- Is Canned Chicken Already Cooked
- Is Chorizo Already Cooked
- Is Spam Already Cooked
- Is Bacon Already Cooked
- Is Turkey Bacon Already Cooked
I have been smoking and grilling meat from an early age and enjoy sharing my knowledge and expertise through the hundreds of articles I have written about BBQ. I hope to make everyone’s BBQ journey that little bit easier.