Learn About Alaskan Cod and How It is Different from Other Cod (2024)

Shrimp and salmon are the most commonly consumed types of seafood in the United States, but cod is up there, too! Many of us have eaten cod, but do you know the difference between Alaskan and Atlantic cod? let’s take a look at the main types, including Alaskan cod and how it is different.

Things to Know about Atlantic Cod

Atlantic cod, or Gadus morhua is sourced in the New England, Mid-Atlantic, and Southeast waters of the U.S. It’s one of the best-studied marine fishes, and we know quite a bit about how Atlantic cod behave.

They often reach lengths of at least 6.5 feet, and commonly weigh over 200 pounds. Atlantic cod is a predatory fish that spends much of its time on the seafloor, eating bony fishes, lobsters, and invertebrates. Like Alaskan halibut, adult Atlantic cod have two main predators—large sharks and humans!

Speaking of which, Atlantic cod is quite the iconic fish in the regions it’s found. It’s actually where the name Cape Cod came from! Unfortunately, they’re so iconic that stocks have declined dramatically in recent years. In fact, Atlantic cod are considered to be overfished. As such, fishing rates have been reduced and there’s a target to rebuild the Atlantic cod population to healthy levels by 2024.

Things to Know about Pacific Cod

Gadus macrocephalus is the name for Pacific cod, which is found along the West Coast of the U.S., and in Alaskan waters. Like Atlantic cod, they tend to be found near the seafloor, but sometimes come into shallower water in the spring (where they spawn).

Learn About Alaskan Cod and How It is Different from Other Cod (1)

Pacific cod thrive on many marine species, including juvenile fish, crabs, shrimp, clams, and even worms! Unlike Atlantic cod, Pacific cod (including Alaskan cod) is not currently overfished, and in fact, is considered a smart seafood choice.

Also dissimilar to Atlantic cod, Pacific cod are generally much smaller, on average reaching just six feet in length and, while they can reach weights of up to 50 pounds, they’re often fished when they’re around 11 pounds.

Is Atlantic or Pacific Cod Better?

Volume

The most important thing to consider when it comes to the Atlantic vs Pacific cod debate is that the former is, and has been, overfished—meaning that Atlantic cod is vulnerable to extinction. In fact, a recent study reported that by 2050, we could see cod become extinct in some fisheries, like the Gulf of St. Lawrence, which feeds into the Atlantic ocean. This is why it’s important to look for sustainable seafood!

Although it’s the second largest commercial catch in Alaska, and virtually all of the U.S., Pacific cod is sustainably managed and has either above target population levels, or those that are growing. Of the four main stocks of Pacific cod—Bering Sea, Gulf of Alaska, Aleutian Islands, and Pacific Coast—none are currently being overfished.

Life Cycle

Atlantic cod fish can live for more than 20 years, and are capable of reproduction by just two or three years old. Shockingly, larger females can produce as much as a whopping nine million eggs when they spawn!

On the other hand, Pacific cod need to reach an age of either four or five years old before being able to produce, and an average female will produce more than one million eggs when they spawn.

Nutrition

Pacific cod is a great source of protein, vitamin B12, niacin, and phosphorus. It’s also low in fat.Atlantic cod is much the same, but contains more calories (105 vs 82 calories, per 100 grams) and also has more protein.

Both types of cod are high in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A, D, and E. They’re also a good source of potassium, selenium, and other trace minerals. Compared with Alaskan salmon, cod has significantly less calories, but also has less omega-3 fatty acids.

Taste

It’s generally thought that Atlantic cod has a slightly sweeter taste than Pacific cod, and is more flaky, too. They also have a silvery subcutaneous layer not found in Pacific cod, which makes it slightly firmer, less oily, and less moist.

Pacific cod is a more savory, mild-tasting fish. When cooked it is lean and flaky. Compared to Atlantic cod, it’s got a bit more moisture, making the meat less firm. When raw, Pacific cod appears creamy white and opaque, becoming white when cooked. However, because it’s not bled after being caught, it’s typically not as white as Atlantic cod.

Alaskan Cod: What’s Unique About It?

Health

Like all types of cod, Alaskan cod is high in protein, several vitamins and minerals, and omega-3’s.

The highest quality of cod is captured when the flavor and nutrition are retained. For this reason, many Alaskan trawlers use refrigerated seawater tanks before processing the fish on shore. As you can imagine, this solution contains a lot of salt, meaning that the resulting cod is tastier—but is also high in sodium (roughly 316 milligrams in a 3-ounce serving).

Taste

Like the other types of cod, Alaskan cod fish has a mild flavor and a delicate texture. It’s also thought to be slightly whiter and more sweet than Atlantic cod, and has a firm, flaky body that’s perfect for fish and chips.

That being said, it’s got plenty of delicious flavor on its own and doesn’t need a lot added to it! A simple spritz of olive oil and a small squeeze of lemon juice is more than enough to have a tasty meal.

Sustainability and the Future of Alaskan Cod

Unfortunately, Pacific cod—including Alaskan cod—is considered to be highly sensitive to climate change. Warmer temperatures are associated with unsuccessful spawning, limited recruitment, and population shifts.

In 2017, NOAA Fisheries scientists reported the first alarming drop in the numbers of Alaskan adult cod, caused by what’s called a “Blob marine heatwave.” This leads to slower growth for juvenile Alaskan cod, and can ultimately diminish their survival. While this warm water period lasted from 2014-2016, our rapidly changing climate means we could possibly see it again.

Summary

If we want to keep enjoying this tasty seafood, it’s important to do what we can to consume sustainable fish, like responsibly-sourced Alaskan cod. Educate yourself with the sustainable seafood guidesand choose your seafood source wisely. At Alaskan Salmon Co., we are a fisherman community that commits to ethical fishing practices. We are striving to give you Alaskan seafood directly to your door.

Learn About Alaskan Cod and How It is Different from Other Cod (2024)

FAQs

Learn About Alaskan Cod and How It is Different from Other Cod? ›

Atlantic cod tends to be the sweeter of the two main varieties, whereas Alaskan cod is milder and a bit fattier, with a slightly firmer, chunkier texture.

What is the difference between Alaskan cod and cod? ›

It's generally thought that Atlantic cod has a slightly sweeter taste than Pacific cod, and is more flaky, too. They also have a silvery subcutaneous layer not found in Pacific cod, which makes it slightly firmer, less oily, and less moist. Pacific cod is a more savory, mild-tasting fish.

What is Alaskan true cod? ›

Alaska True Cod is the first 'fish 'n chip' fish, with a mild, clean flavor, perfect flake and abundant white meat. Portions are skinless, boneless 4 - 10 ounce portions. Important shipping information: We ship using FedEx Priority with a 1-2 day transit time to deliver your seafood order.

What is the difference between Atlantic cod and black cod? ›

Black Cod boast white and fatty meat, with a velvety texture and buttery flavor. Cod meat is white and flaky, but firmer and leaner. It has a fair bit of moisture, and a mild taste. The good news about both fish is that they're abundant in their habitat, which means that you can catch your fill any time you want!

What is the difference between ling cod and true cod? ›

Lingcod (Ophiodon elongatus) belong to the family Hexagrammids. Contrary to their name, they are not true cods, but are greenlings. Lingcod are voracious predators and can grow to weigh over 80 pounds (35 kg) and measure 60 inches (150 cm) in length. They are characterized by a large mouth with 18 sharp teeth.

What is Alaskan cod good for? ›

Weight Management: Pacific cod can help you maintain a healthy weight. Its high protein helps you feel full and satisfied for longer, quelling any snacking urges in between meals. Heart Health: It's also incredibly lean, containing only 1 gram of fat per 6 ounce serving — without any saturated fat content.

Is Alaskan white fish the same as cod? ›

Flavor and Texture Differences

When cooked, both species are mild-flavored white fish. The difference between them really comes down to texture. Generally, you can substitute for one another without much fuss, but Wild Alaska Pollock will lose its shape faster during cooking than Pacific cod.

Why is my Alaskan cod tough? ›

When you overcook fish, it can become dry, tough, and lack flavor. Overcooked fish loses its natural moisture, which can result in a dry and chewy texture.

What is another name for Alaskan cod? ›

Pacific Cod (Alaska Cod, True Cod, Grey Cod, Tara, Codfish) Once dwarfed by Atlantic cod landings, "pacific cod is the second largest commercial groundfish catch off Alaska and virtually all of the United States."1 Its mild flavor and flaky texture equals that of Atlantic cod.

Can you eat Alaskan cod everyday? ›

Other organizations, like the EDF or the EPA, consider Pacific cod one of the best choices and offer guidance suggesting it's safe for this group to consume 12 ounces of this species or more per week. To reiterate, this is assuming that no other seafood containing a significant amount of mercury is consumed.

Which cod is best to eat? ›

According to Berglund, the best cod in the world is the cod known as skrei – more on that below – which lives at the northern edge of the Barents Sea, almost closer to the North Pole than the northernmost tip of mainland Europe.

Is cod a cheap fish? ›

The per-pound price of black cod of course differs according to sourcing, season and other factors, but you can generally expect a per-pound price of around $20 or so. Cod, on the other hand, is a more budget-friendly fish, with per-pound pricing hovering around $10 per pound or less.

Which cod fish is better? ›

In flavour terms, it's widely agreed that Atlantic cod has a slightly sweet taste, with large flakes that fall apart easily when cooked. Pacific cod has a milder, more savoury flavour profile accompanied by firmer, chunkier flakes. Preference is very much down to consumers' personal tastes.

What is the most unhealthy fish to eat? ›

Worst: Fish High in Mercury
  • Imported swordfish.
  • Imported marlin.
  • Shark.
  • Tilefish.

What is Alaska's true cod? ›

Interesting Culinary Truth: True cod is the original 'fish 'n chip' fish. True cod have a mild and clean flavor with a perfect flake & large white-meat which allows for a variety of preparations. Though often found in fish and chips, cod is at its healthiest baked or broiled.

What fish is closest to cod? ›

A popular choice for fish and chips, haddock is very similar to cod (they are technically related) and can be a seamless stand-in if good cod is unavailable. Delicate and soft, try using haddock in a classic fish chowder.

Which type of cod fish is the best? ›

According to Berglund, the best cod in the world is the cod known as skrei – more on that below – which lives at the northern edge of the Barents Sea, almost closer to the North Pole than the northernmost tip of mainland Europe.

Does Alaskan cod taste good? ›

Taste and Texture

Its fatty texture lends itself well to centerpiece dishes, and its not-overly-fishy taste is great for diners who don't think they like seafood.

Is Alaskan cod wild or farmed? ›

Some fish farms are inland, and some contain fish in natural waters in pens. Either way water, fish and waste from fish farms makes its way into rivers, contaminating wild runs. The state of Alaska doesn't allow any fish farming, so “Alaskan” always means wild when it comes to fish labels.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Merrill Bechtelar CPA

Last Updated:

Views: 6505

Rating: 5 / 5 (70 voted)

Reviews: 93% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Merrill Bechtelar CPA

Birthday: 1996-05-19

Address: Apt. 114 873 White Lodge, Libbyfurt, CA 93006

Phone: +5983010455207

Job: Legacy Representative

Hobby: Blacksmithing, Urban exploration, Sudoku, Slacklining, Creative writing, Community, Letterboxing

Introduction: My name is Merrill Bechtelar CPA, I am a clean, agreeable, glorious, magnificent, witty, enchanting, comfortable person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.