The 'count per pound' is the primary industry standard for understanding shrimp sizes and weights. This range tells you approximately how many individual shrimp are in a single pound.
Understanding the Count per Pound System
The label '61/70 count per pound' means there are between 61 and 70 shrimp in a single pound. When purchasing 70 shrimp from this category, one is buying one full pound of extra small shrimp. However, the total weight changes if the shrimp are a different size.
How Size Affects Weight
The total weight for 70 shrimp of a different size can be calculated: $(70 / \text{count per pound midpoint}) \times 1$ pound. For example, if buying 'Jumbo' shrimp, which are typically in the 21/25 count range, the midpoint is about 23. The math would be $70 / 23 \approx 3.04$ pounds. This demonstrates the importance of knowing the size category.
Weight Comparison of 70 Shrimp at Different Sizes
| Shrimp Size (Count per Pound) | Weight for 70 Shrimp (Approx.) | Average Price per Pound | Total Cost for 70 Shrimp (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Extra Small (61/70) | 1.0 lb | $14.00 | $14.00 |
| Medium (41/50) | 1.5 lb | $16.00 | $24.00 |
| Large (31/35) | 2.1 lb | $20.00 | $42.00 |
| Jumbo (21/25) | 3.0 lb | $28.00 | $84.00 |
| Extra Jumbo (16/20) | 3.9 lb | $33.00 | $128.70 |
Selecting Shrimp for Recipes
The correct shrimp size depends on the recipe. Cooking time varies with size. Extra small shrimp are ideal for salads or pasta dishes. Larger shrimp are better for grilling or as a main course. Smaller shrimp used in recipes that call for larger ones could overcook and become rubbery, and the reverse will negatively affect the balance of the dish.
Purchasing and Handling Shrimp
Buying for a Recipe
Always check the packaging for the count per pound. This is more reliable than descriptions like 'large' or 'medium'. Frozen shrimp is often recommended for freshness unless you live near the coast.
Raw vs. Cooked Shrimp Weight
Shrimp can lose 10-25% of their weight during cooking. To account for this, it might be necessary to buy extra. For example, if a recipe requires one pound of cooked shrimp, it might be necessary to begin with about 1.25 pounds of raw shrimp.
Conclusion
The weight of 70 shrimp varies by size. For 'extra small' (61/70 count) shrimp, 70 pieces will weigh one pound. By understanding the count per pound system, one can ensure getting the right amount of shrimp for culinary creations.
Cost and Count
Because smaller shrimp have a higher count per pound, the price per pound is usually lower. Larger shrimp cost significantly more, but they also weigh much more.
Convenience
Frozen, pre-peeled shrimp tend to be more expensive per pound. The added weight of the shell and head means you are getting more physical volume, but less edible meat.
For further guidance on shrimp, consult reputable culinary resources such as The Spruce Eats.
