Understanding Shrimp Sizes and Protein Content
Calculating the protein in 50 shrimp is not a straightforward equation because shrimp are not sold in uniform sizes. The industry uses a 'count-per-pound' metric to classify shrimp. For example, a 31/35 count means there are 31 to 35 shrimp in one pound, making them larger than a 41/50 count. Therefore, the total weight of 50 shrimp changes dramatically based on their size, directly impacting the final protein tally.
Protein in 50 Medium Shrimp
Medium shrimp are commonly sold with a count of 41 to 50 per pound. This means that 50 medium shrimp are roughly equal to one pound (454 grams). Based on the USDA data that 100 grams of cooked shrimp contains about 24 grams of protein, a simple calculation can be made.
- One pound (454g) of cooked medium shrimp contains approximately 109 grams of protein (4.54 x 24g).
- Since 50 medium shrimp make up about one pound, you can expect 50 medium shrimp to contain around 109 grams of protein.
Protein in 50 Large Shrimp
For large shrimp, the count per pound is lower, typically 31 to 35. Fifty large shrimp would weigh more than a pound and therefore contain more protein. The website Eat This Much provides nutrition data that suggests 50 large raw shrimp contain 48g of protein. However, cooking them can alter the weight due to moisture loss, which concentrates the protein. Another source indicates that 50 large shrimp, cooked, could provide up to 116g of protein, showing significant variability.
Protein in 50 Small Shrimp
Smaller shrimp are designated by a higher count, such as 51 to 60 per pound. This means 50 small shrimp would weigh less than a pound. For example, if 50 small shrimp amount to 400 grams, they would contain approximately 96 grams of protein (4 x 24g). As with larger shrimp, the final weight and protein content will vary based on brand and cooking method.
Raw vs. Cooked: The Weight and Protein Factor
One of the most important aspects to consider when calculating protein is whether the shrimp is raw or cooked. Cooking causes shrimp to lose moisture, but the total protein content remains the same. Since cooked shrimp weighs less, the protein per gram is higher. It is important to compare calculations based on the same state (raw or cooked) for accuracy. For instance, some raw shrimp sources show lower protein per 100g compared to cooked versions because of the water weight difference.
Comparison of Shrimp Sizes and Protein
| Shrimp Size (Count per lb) | Approximate Weight (50 shrimp) | Approximate Protein (50 cooked shrimp) |
|---|---|---|
| Extra Large (26/30) | ~1.7 lbs (770g) | ~185g |
| Large (31/35) | ~1.5 lbs (680g) | ~163g |
| Medium (41/50) | ~1 lb (454g) | ~109g |
| Small (51/60) | ~0.8 lbs (360g) | ~86g |
The Broader Nutritional Profile of Shrimp
Shrimp offers more than just protein. It is a highly nutritious food that can contribute to a healthy diet. A 3-ounce (85-gram) serving, which is less than 50 medium shrimp, provides over 20 grams of protein and is rich in essential vitamins and minerals.
Essential Nutrients in Shrimp
- Selenium: An important antioxidant for thyroid health.
- Vitamin B12: Crucial for nerve function and red blood cell production.
- Phosphorus: Plays a vital role in bone health.
- Choline: Supports brain health and cognitive function.
- Iodine: Necessary for proper thyroid function.
It is also worth noting that shrimp contains astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant that gives it its reddish color and may have anti-inflammatory benefits. However, it is high in cholesterol, a factor to consider for those monitoring their intake, although newer research suggests dietary cholesterol has less impact on blood cholesterol than previously thought.
Cooking Methods and Nutritional Impact
While cooking doesn't destroy the protein in shrimp, the method used can impact the overall nutritional value by adding fat and calories. For instance, frying shrimp in oil will significantly increase the fat and calorie count compared to grilling or boiling it. Choosing low-fat cooking methods can help maintain a healthy profile. Steaming, broiling, and sautéing with minimal fat are all excellent choices. For more on healthy cooking practices, resources like the American Heart Association provide useful guidance on preparing lean protein sources. [https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/protein-and-heart-health]
Conclusion: Sizing Up Your Shrimp
In summary, the number of grams of protein in 50 shrimp depends largely on the size of the shrimp. For a standard medium-sized shrimp (41/50 count), 50 shrimp equate to about one pound and provide approximately 109 grams of cooked protein. However, if the shrimp are large, that number could be as high as 160-180 grams. Knowing the count-per-pound and whether the shrimp is raw or cooked is essential for accurate nutritional estimates. Shrimp remains an excellent and versatile source of lean protein and other vital nutrients for a balanced diet.
