Salmon Color Guide: Factors Affecting Salmon Color

People often pay attention to the color when buying salmon. The color of salmon is one of the key indicators of its freshness and quality, although this isn’t the only explanation. Certain factors contribute to color, which you will learn in this article.

Why is Salmon Orange, Pink, or Red?

The color of salmon is influenced by three main factors: diet, environment, and species. Below is a more detailed explanation:

Diet

Salmon get their pink or red hue primarily from carotenoids, especially astaxanthin, which are pigments found in their food [*].

Wild salmon obtain these pigments from eating krill, shrimp, and other small crustaceans rich in astaxanthin. This natural diet results in vibrant colors that vary slightly based on what the salmon eat.

Farmed salmon, on the other hand, often have their diet supplemented with artificial colorants to ensure a consistent color. This supplementation mimics the natural pigments found in the wild, which produces a uniform pink or orange hue in farmed salmon. Therefore, the type and amount of food salmon consume play an important role in determining their color.

Habitat

Salmon living in different habitats might have access to different types and amounts of food. For instance, cold, nutrient-rich waters tend to support a diverse and abundant marine ecosystem. In these environments, salmon may consume more carotenoid-rich food.

Species

Each salmon species has its own characteristic color range as a result of its unique genetic makeup. For example, Sockeye salmon are known for their deep red flesh, while Atlantic salmon typically have a lighter pink color.

Color differences are also adaptations that can help with camouflage or mating. They help salmon blend into their environment to protect them from predators or help them hide in specific habitats. For example, the deeper red color of Sockeye salmon might help them blend into the darker, nutrient-rich waters where they are found.

Related: Wild Caught vs. Farm Raised Salmon: What’s the Difference?

How can I Tell if the Color of Salmon is Natural or Artificial?

Natural salmon color tends to be more varied and less uniform, with hues ranging from deep reds to lighter pinks depending on the species and diet. Wild salmon often display subtle color differences due to their diverse diets, which include naturally occurring carotenoids.

In contrast, farmed salmon typically have a more consistent and vibrant color because their feed is supplemented with food colorants like astaxanthin to achieve uniformity.

Check the product labeling as it specifies getting the type of salmon you want and provides information about its source, including sustainability. Doing this can help you make more informed and responsible choices.

Does the Color of Salmon Affect its Taste?

The color of salmon does not directly affect its taste, but it can provide clues about its diet. It is also true that the color of salmon can affect its taste perception and enjoyment. For example, if salmon is a deeper red, consumers may associate it with richer, more intense flavors. Conversely, a duller color might lead them to expect a less flavorful experience.

It’s important to note that the fat content in salmon also influences taste. Higher fat content generally leads to a richer, more buttery flavor. Last but not least, how salmon is cooked can affect its flavor. For example, grilling imparts a smoky, charred flavor, while baking preserves the natural flavors of the salmon.

Related: What Does Salmon Taste Like?

Does the Color of Salmon Indicate its Quality or Freshness?

The color of salmon may indicate its quality and freshness, but it should be considered alongside other factors like smell, texture, including its eyes and gills.

Fresh salmon typically has a vibrant, rich color, whether it is a deep red, pink, or orange, depending on the species and diet. Meanwhile, dull or grayish hues may suggest that the salmon is past its prime or not as fresh.

When it comes to the smell, fresh salmon should have a clean, ocean-like smell. An off or sour odor can be a sign of spoilage. It should should feel firm and springy to the touch. If you are buying whole fish, bulging eyes and bright red gills are signs of freshness.

Related: How to Tell if Salmon is Bad

Summary

Color can provide clues about the salmon’s diet, species, and habitat, including its freshness. The vibrant pink, red, or orange hues are largely attributed to carotenoids like astaxanthin found in wild salmon. As for farmed salmon, its diet is often supplemented with similar pigments to achieve the desired color.

If you're looking for salmon with vivid orange to deep red hue, which reflects its premium quality and rich diet, choose our Wild Copper River Sockeye Salmon fillets.