The question of how much one big shrimp weighs doesn't have a single answer because the seafood industry uses a variable grading system. Instead of precise metric weights, shrimp are typically sorted by a 'count per pound' system, which categorizes them based on how many individual shrimp are required to make up one pound. A 'big' shrimp in this system could be classified as Jumbo, Extra Jumbo, Colossal, or Super Colossal, each with its own approximate weight range. Understanding this system is crucial for home cooks and chefs alike to ensure the correct size is purchased for a specific recipe, as a Super Colossal shrimp is far different in weight and cooking time than a Jumbo one.
Decoding the 'Count Per Pound' System
The seafood industry's sizing method, 'count per pound,' is the most important factor in determining how much a single large shrimp weighs. The number on the label, such as '16/20,' tells you the estimated number of shrimp in a pound. A lower number indicates larger shrimp. For example, a bag of '16/20' shrimp will contain fewer, and therefore larger, shrimp than a bag of '31/35' shrimp. The label 'U/10' signifies 'under 10' per pound, meaning each shrimp is extremely large and heavy.
The Weight of Different 'Big' Shrimp Sizes
Jumbo Shrimp
Often the smallest category of what many consider a 'big' shrimp, Jumbo shrimp typically have a count of 21/25 per pound. This means each individual jumbo shrimp weighs approximately 0.64 to 0.76 ounces, or about 18 to 21.5 grams. They are a versatile size, large enough for skewers but also suitable for pasta dishes.
Extra Jumbo Shrimp
Moving up in size, Extra Jumbo shrimp are typically labeled with a 16/20 count per pound. This places their individual weight in the range of 0.8 to 1 ounce, or 22.7 to 28.3 grams. This size is popular for presentations like shrimp cocktails or stuffed shrimp.
Colossal Shrimp
Colossal shrimp are significantly larger, with a count of 13/15 or 8-12 per pound depending on the market. An individual Colossal shrimp can weigh between 1.06 and 1.23 ounces, or roughly 30 to 35 grams. Their size makes them a prominent centerpiece for many dishes.
Super Colossal and U/10 Shrimp
At the very top of the size scale are Super Colossal and U/10 shrimp, which signifies 'under 10' per pound. These are the biggest shrimp commonly available, with each individual shrimp weighing over 1.6 ounces or 45 grams, and often reaching one full ounce (28.3g) or more. This is the closest you'll get to a truly impressive 'one big shrimp.'
Factors Affecting a Shrimp's Final Weight
Several factors impact the final weight of a shrimp that you purchase and prepare, including processing and cooking method.
Raw vs. Cooked Weight: Like most seafood, shrimp lose weight when cooked due to moisture loss. This can amount to a 10-25% reduction in weight, depending on the cooking method. For example, a raw Super Colossal shrimp that is an ounce or more might weigh slightly less after boiling.
Shell-on vs. Peeled and Deveined: The weight of the head and shell adds significantly to a shrimp's total weight. A shrimp with the head on is typically two sizes larger than if the head is removed. Peeling and deveining can reduce the total weight by about 15%. This is an important consideration when buying based on 'count per pound,' as a 16/20 shelled shrimp will have more meat than a 16/20 shell-on shrimp.
Species of Shrimp: The weight can also vary by species. For example, giant tiger prawns can grow to be much heavier than many other varieties. A large giant tiger prawn can weigh up to 150 grams, while a smaller one might be 40 grams. These sizes can far exceed the 'big' shrimp found in typical supermarkets, making them a specific and impressive choice for certain dishes.
Comparison of Big Shrimp Sizes
| Shrimp Size | Count Per Pound (Raw, Headless) | Approximate Individual Weight (Raw, Headless) | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jumbo (21/25) | 21-25 | 18.1 - 21.5 grams (approx. 0.64-0.76 oz) | Stir-fries, pasta dishes, skewers |
| Extra Jumbo (16/20) | 16-20 | 22.7 - 28.3 grams (approx. 0.8-1.0 oz) | Shrimp cocktails, light grilling |
| Colossal (U/15 or 8-12) | Under 15 | 30 grams or more (approx. 1.06+ oz) | Shrimp cocktails, baked stuffed shrimp |
| Super Colossal (U/10 or U/12) | Under 12 | 37.7 grams or more (approx. 1.3 oz+) | Impressive cocktail presentations, grilling |
Conclusion
To answer how much one big shrimp weighs, you must first define 'big' according to the seafood industry's classifications. A standard Jumbo shrimp is typically under an ounce, while Colossal and Super Colossal varieties can easily exceed one ounce in raw weight. For a truly significant weight, specific species like the Giant Tiger Prawn may be a better reference, with some weighing over 100 grams. A general rule is to remember the count per pound system: the lower the number, the heavier and larger the individual shrimp. For more information on seafood sizing and cooking, you can refer to authoritative sources like Fulton Fish Market.
