The Best Frozen Cod to Buy in 2025

If you’re searching for the best frozen cod to buy in 2025, you’re not alone. From weeknight dinners to seafood lovers seeking premium cuts, frozen cod — especially black cod — has become a go-to choice for its versatility and long shelf life. But with so many options on the market, which brands actually deliver on quality?

We’ve reviewed a range of frozen cod products — from everyday grocery picks to restaurant-quality fillets. Whether you prioritize flavor, sustainability, or value, here are the top choices that stand out this year.

The Best Frozen Cod to Buy

We categorized the best frozen cod brands by what they do best — whether it’s premium black cod delivered straight from Alaska, budget-friendly grocery store picks, or sustainably sourced fillets from trusted fisheries. Each one stands out for a different reason, depending on what matters most to you.

Alaskan Salmon Company’s Wild Alaskan Black Cod

If you're looking for a frozen cod that tastes like it came straight from a fine-dining kitchen, this is it. Alaskan Salmon Company’s Wild Alaskan Black Cod (also known as sablefish) is rich, buttery, and packed with omega-3s—earning its nickname “the wagyu of the sea.” It’s flash-frozen at peak freshness, with no additives, preservatives, or fillers, which means you get a clean, premium cut every time.

What sets it apart is the direct-from-source approach. This cod is wild-caught in Alaska and shipped directly from the company’s facilities, not rerouted through warehouses. The result? A flaky, melt-in-your-mouth texture that holds up beautifully whether you're pan-searing, broiling, or baking.

It’s not the cheapest option on this list, but if you’re after quality that rivals what top chefs serve, this black cod is worth every bite.

Great Value Wild Caught Skinless Cod Fillets

Walmart’s Great Value brand offers one of the most affordable frozen cod options you can find nationwide—and surprisingly, it holds up well for the price. These wild-caught skinless fillets come individually wrapped and frozen, making them a practical pick for families or meal-preppers on a budget.

While it may not deliver the same richness as premium options like black cod, it offers a clean, mild flavor that works great in fish tacos, chowders, or baked dishes. The cuts are thinner than some competitors, so they cook quickly, but be careful not to overdo it or you’ll lose moisture.

What’s appealing here is the accessibility—available at most Walmart stores and online, it’s a reliable freezer staple when you want something quick, simple, and inexpensive.

Intershell’s Frozen Atlantic Cod Fillets

Intershell, a Gloucester-based seafood company, offers frozen Atlantic cod fillets known for their clean flavor and sustainable sourcing. These fillets are wild-caught in the North Atlantic and processed using high-quality standards designed to preserve taste and texture.

What makes Intershell stand out is its commitment to responsible fishing. The company partners with local fisheries and emphasizes traceability—from catch to packaging. Their Atlantic cod is typically thicker-cut, which helps retain moisture when cooking and works well for pan-frying or baking with breadcrumbs or marinades.

You may not find Intershell at your neighborhood grocery store, but it’s a popular option through select seafood retailers and restaurants that want reliable frozen cod without sacrificing sourcing ethics.

Blue Crab Trading’s North Atlantic WIld Caught Cod Fillets

Blue Crab Trading is a Maryland-based seafood company best known for its crab, but their frozen North Atlantic cod is a hidden gem. These wild-caught fillets are sourced from cold North Atlantic waters and frozen soon after harvest to lock in freshness.

What sets this product apart is consistency—each order typically includes boneless, skinless fillets with a mild, slightly sweet flavor that cod is known for. The company also offers vacuum-sealed packaging to help preserve quality during storage and shipping.

While Blue Crab Trading isn’t a household name, its reputation among East Coast seafood buyers speaks for itself. If you’re ordering online and want something reliable with clean sourcing, this is a solid middle-ground choice between grocery store basics and chef-level offerings.

Frozen Cod FAQs

Is frozen cod as good as fresh cod?

Yes — if it’s frozen properly. High-quality frozen cod is flash-frozen shortly after harvest, preserving its taste, texture, and nutritional value. In some cases, frozen cod may actually be fresher than "fresh" cod sold in stores, which could have spent days in transit. Look for fillets that are vacuum-sealed and labeled as wild-caught or sustainably sourced for the best quality.

Is eating frozen cod healthy?

Absolutely. Cod is naturally low in fat, high in lean protein, and provides essential nutrients like vitamin B12, selenium, and phosphorus. It’s also lower in mercury than many other fish. Freezing doesn’t significantly alter its nutrition—as long as the fish is processed and stored properly, frozen cod remains a healthy and convenient option.

How can I tell if frozen cod is good?

To spot a good-quality frozen cod fillet, start by checking a few key signs. The fish should feel firm once thawed—not soft or mushy. There should be no visible ice crystals or signs of freezer burn, as these can indicate poor storage. Labels are also important; look for details about where the cod was caught and how it was frozen, such as “flash-frozen at sea.” Finally, if the cod smells overly fishy or has a slimy texture after thawing, it’s best not to use it.

Summary

Frozen cod can be just as tasty and reliable as fresh — if you know what to look for. Whether you’re cooking for the family or treating yourself to a buttery black cod dinner, the options out there are better than ever.

Stick with trusted sources, check the labels, and don’t settle for anything that smells off. With the right pick, your freezer might just become your go-to seafood stash.

Curious what premium cod tastes like? Try our Wild Alaskan Black Cod — it’s restaurant-quality flavor, delivered to your door.