How much is 4oz of shrimp? A comprehensive guide

November 24, 2025 •

4 min read

A standard 4oz raw serving of shrimp, which is often recommended for a single main course, typically shrinks to about 3oz when cooked due to water loss. The exact number of shrimp in that 4oz, however, depends entirely on their size, ranging from a few colossal pieces to over a dozen medium shrimp.

Quick Summary

Find out how many shrimp are in a 4oz serving based on size categories like medium, jumbo, and colossal. This guide covers nutritional facts and clarifies the difference between raw and cooked shrimp weight.

Key Points

Count Depends on Size: The number of shrimp in a 4oz serving varies significantly based on their size (e.g., 3-4 colossal vs. 10-12 medium).
Raw vs. Cooked Weight: Expect approximately 25% weight loss during cooking, so 4oz raw becomes about 3oz cooked.
High Protein, Low Calorie: A 4oz cooked serving offers 26-27g of protein and is relatively low in calories and fat.
Use Count for Accuracy: When buying, rely on the count-per-pound number (e.g., 41/50) rather than vague size labels for precision.
Frozen Often Means Fresher: Unless you can guarantee freshness, frozen shrimp is generally a safer and higher-quality choice than thawed shrimp from the seafood counter.
Mind the Sodium: Pay attention to the sodium content, as it can be high depending on preparation and additives like brines.

The quantity and nutritional value of a 4oz serving of shrimp can vary greatly depending on its size and whether it's raw or cooked. Understanding these details is key to accurate meal planning, whether you are managing your diet or preparing a recipe. For a typical main course, 4oz of raw shrimp is considered a single portion, but the number of individual shrimp can differ dramatically.

How Many Shrimp are in 4oz?

The term 'shrimp size' refers to the count per pound. For example, a bag of '41/50 count' shrimp contains 41 to 50 shrimp per pound. To find out how many are in a 4oz serving, you simply divide the count by four (since 4oz is one-quarter of a pound). The following list provides a breakdown of common shrimp sizes for a 4oz serving:

Colossal (13-15 count): Approximately 3-4 shrimp
Jumbo (21-25 count): Approximately 5-6 shrimp
Extra Large (26-30 count): Approximately 7-8 shrimp
Large (31-40 count): Approximately 8-10 shrimp
Medium (41-50 count): Approximately 10-12 shrimp
Small (51-60 count): Approximately 13-15 shrimp
Extra Small (61-70 count): Approximately 15-17 shrimp

The Raw vs. Cooked Weight Difference

When shrimp are cooked, they lose a significant amount of weight, primarily due to moisture evaporation. This process is commonly known as 'shrinkage.' On average, shrimp can lose around 25% of their mass during cooking. This means that a 4oz raw serving will weigh approximately 3oz once cooked. It's an important factor to consider for recipes and dietary tracking, especially when using a food scale.

The Nutritional Value of 4oz of Shrimp

Shrimp is a low-calorie, high-protein food. A 4oz serving provides a substantial amount of protein with minimal fat. While specific values can differ slightly based on cooking method and species, the following table provides a general overview of the nutritional facts for a 4oz serving of cooked shrimp:


Nutrient	Approximate Value (Cooked)	Dietary Significance
Calories	112-135 kcal	Lean protein source
Protein	26-27 g	Supports muscle growth and repair
Total Fat	0.32-2 g	Very low fat
Cholesterol	142-239 mg	Significant source, especially for cooked versions
Sodium	126-1074 mg	Can be high depending on preparation and added ingredients
Carbohydrates	< 2 g	Virtually carb-free
Selenium	56 µg (102% DV)	Powerful antioxidant

It's important to note the sodium and cholesterol content. While dietary cholesterol has less impact on blood cholesterol for most people than once believed, individuals with specific health concerns should monitor intake. The wide range in sodium can be attributed to whether the shrimp is prepared with added salt, brines, or seasonings.

Measuring 4oz of Shrimp

The most accurate way to measure 4oz of shrimp is with a kitchen scale. Simply place your peeled, raw shrimp on the scale until it reaches 4 ounces. However, if a scale isn't available, visual estimation can be useful. A 4oz serving of raw shrimp is often compared to the size of a person's palm, a deck of cards, or a tennis ball.

When buying shrimp, the most reliable method for determining size and quantity is to look at the 'count per pound' number on the packaging. This standardized system removes the ambiguity of marketing terms like 'Jumbo' or 'Large,' which can vary by brand. For instance, if you want large shrimp for a recipe, buying a bag with a 31/40 count is more precise than simply looking for a bag labeled 'Large.'

How to Select the Best 4oz of Shrimp

When purchasing shrimp, especially in smaller quantities like 4oz, quality is paramount. Frozen shrimp are often the superior choice unless you are buying directly from a trusted local source. Shrimp sold thawed on ice may have been frozen and defrosted, meaning they are losing freshness by the hour. Look for wild-caught shrimp for a cleaner, more pronounced flavor profile. If farmed, ensure it is from a responsibly managed and sustainably certified source.

Buying Checklist:

Prioritize Frozen: Opt for frozen packages over 'fresh' thawed shrimp unless you are sure of their origin.
Check the Count: Base your purchase on the 'count per pound' number for size accuracy.
Verify Sourcing: Choose wild-caught or responsibly farmed shrimp when possible.
Examine Quality: Avoid any shrimp that have a strong ammonia smell or feel soft or slimy to the touch.

Conclusion: The Final Word on 4oz Shrimp

Understanding what constitutes a 4oz serving of shrimp is crucial for home cooks and health-conscious individuals alike. The true value lies not just in the weight but in the count, nutritional profile, and the distinction between raw and cooked measurements. While 4oz raw is a standard meal portion, it translates to fewer pieces for larger shrimp and approximately 3oz of food on your plate after cooking. By using a scale, checking count, and being mindful of quality, you can ensure a delicious and accurately portioned meal every time.

For more information on standard seafood serving sizes, you can visit the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's official guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions

For medium shrimp, which are typically labeled as '41/50 count' (41-50 shrimp per pound), a 4oz serving will contain approximately 10 to 12 pieces.

Raw shrimp loses about 25% of its weight during cooking, primarily due to moisture loss. This means a 4oz raw serving will weigh approximately 3oz after it's cooked.

Ounces are a measure of weight, while cups measure volume. There is no direct conversion for solid items like shrimp. The amount in cups would depend on the size of the shrimp and how tightly they are packed.

A 4oz serving of plain, cooked shrimp contains approximately 112 to 135 calories, providing a significant amount of lean protein with very little fat.

Yes, 4oz of raw shrimp is a standard portion for a single main course serving. It provides a substantial amount of protein to a meal.

You can visually estimate 4oz of raw shrimp by comparing it to the size of a deck of cards or the palm of your hand. For greater accuracy, however, a food scale is recommended.

The 'count' refers to the number of individual shrimp per pound. So, a '21/25' count means there are 21 to 25 shrimp per pound, indicating a jumbo-sized shrimp.