Understanding Shrimp Sizing and Weight
Determining the exact weight of 12 medium shrimp is not a straightforward calculation due to the lack of a standardized system across all suppliers and retailers. Shrimp are typically sold based on a "count per pound" (e.g., 41/50), which indicates how many shrimp of that size are in one pound. A 'medium' classification usually falls into the 41/50 to 51/60 count range, meaning 41 to 60 shrimp per pound.
The Count-Per-Pound System Explained
The count-per-pound system is the most reliable way to estimate the weight of individual shrimp. To find the average weight of a single shrimp, divide 454 grams (the metric equivalent of one pound) by the count number. For instance, for a 41/50 count bag of medium shrimp:
- 41 count: 454 g / 41 ≈ 11.1 g per shrimp.
- 50 count: 454 g / 50 ≈ 9.1 g per shrimp.
Based on this calculation, a single raw, shelled medium shrimp weighs approximately 9 to 11 grams. This means 12 raw, shelled medium shrimp would weigh between 108 grams (12 x 9g) and 132 grams (12 x 11g).
Raw vs. Cooked Weight
Cooking significantly affects the final weight of shrimp due to moisture loss. As shrimp cook, they lose water, causing them to shrink and become lighter. The amount of weight lost can range from 10% to 25%, depending on the cooking method and whether preservatives were used. If you start with 12 raw medium shrimp weighing 132 grams, they could weigh as little as 99 grams after cooking (a 25% loss).
Conversely, if you purchase pre-cooked shrimp, the listed weight already accounts for this moisture loss. This is why a 3-ounce (85 gram) serving of cooked shrimp often contains 10-12 medium shrimp, which aligns with the higher end of the count-per-pound for raw shrimp.
Comparison Table: Shrimp Weight Scenarios
| Scenario | Average Weight per Shrimp (g) | Weight of 12 Shrimp (g) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raw, Shelled (High Range) | 11.1 g | ~133 g | Assumes 41 count per pound |
| Raw, Shelled (Low Range) | 9.1 g | ~109 g | Assumes 50 count per pound |
| Cooked, Shelled (Average) | 7.5 - 10 g | ~90 - 120 g | Reflects 10-25% moisture loss from raw weight |
| Example Product (Raw) | 9.4 g | ~113 g | Specific brand example, shows variability |
What Influences Shrimp Weight?
Several factors can influence the final weight of your 12 medium shrimp:
- Species: Different species of shrimp have varying sizes and densities. For example, larger tiger prawns will have a different weight profile than smaller farm-raised white shrimp.
- Shell and Head: The weight of the shell and head is substantial. On average, the head accounts for 35-40% and the shell for another 15-20% of the total weight. When buying whole, raw shrimp, you must factor this into your calculations, as the final edible meat will weigh significantly less.
- Glazing: Many frozen shrimp products are coated in a thin layer of ice, or 'glaze,' to prevent freezer burn. This adds weight to the package, which is not edible protein. Always check the net weight and be aware that this can affect your per-shrimp weight calculations.
- Processing: Whether the shrimp are peeled and deveined or have the tail on also impacts the final weight. A tail-on shrimp will weigh slightly more than a tail-off version.
Conclusion
To answer the question, 12 medium shrimp, when peeled and raw, will likely weigh between 108 and 132 grams, with the most common figures falling closer to the 110-120 gram range. However, this weight will decrease by 10-25% once cooked. The most reliable way to be accurate is to use a kitchen scale and measure by grams, rather than relying solely on the count. For a 3-ounce (85g) cooked serving, 12 medium shrimp is a common estimate. Ultimately, understanding the count-per-pound system and accounting for preparation—like shelling and cooking—will give you the most accurate answer for your specific needs.
For more detailed information on shrimp sizing, portion planning, and cooking, you can consult resources like Texas Gold Shrimp, which provides comprehensive guides on seafood preparation (texasgoldshrimp.com/blog/how-much-shrimp-per-person-a-serving-size-guide/).
