Decoding Shrimp Sizes: The 16/20 Count
When you see the numbers '16/20' on a bag of cooked shrimp, it is the seafood industry's standard for indicating size. These numbers represent the 'count per pound'—meaning you will find between 16 and 20 individual shrimp in a one-pound package. The inverse relationship between the count number and the shrimp's size is a key concept to remember: the smaller the numbers on the package, the larger the individual shrimp. For example, 16/20 shrimp are much larger than a 41/50 count, and are often referred to as 'Extra Jumbo' or 'Colossal' depending on the vendor.
Because shrimp lose some water weight during the cooking process, the number can be an estimate based on the raw weight, but it serves as a reliable guide for portioning and recipe planning. This standardized system allows consumers to select the right size for their needs, whether it is for an impressive centerpiece dish or an ingredient in a larger recipe. Knowing the count also helps manage costs, as larger shrimp tend to be more expensive per pound.
How 16/20 Shrimp Fit into a Healthy Diet
As a versatile seafood, shrimp offers significant nutritional benefits, and the 16/20 size is no exception. It is a lean source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and a healthy immune system. A 3-ounce cooked serving, which would be about 4-5 of the 16/20 sized shrimp, is a satisfying addition to any meal. According to nutritional data for 16-20 count shrimp, a 100g portion can contain around 20g of protein while remaining low in calories and fat.
For many years, shrimp's high cholesterol content raised concerns. However, modern dietary science has shown that the effect of dietary cholesterol on blood cholesterol is minimal for most healthy individuals. The American Heart Association notes that the benefit of eating seafood, which is rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, outweighs the cholesterol concerns. When consuming cooked shrimp, especially pre-cooked varieties, it is important to be mindful of the added sodium content, which can vary by brand.
Size Matters: Cooking with 16/20 Cooked Shrimp
The generous size of 16/20 cooked shrimp makes it ideal for specific culinary applications where the shrimp is meant to be a showstopper. They have a firm, meaty texture that holds up well, making them perfect for:
- Elegant Shrimp Cocktails: The large size makes for a visually impressive appetizer, great for dipping in sauces.
- Grilling and Skewers: The meatiness prevents them from falling apart or overcooking on the grill.
- Pasta Dishes: Large shrimp add a substantial bite, making them a focal point in a creamy scampi or light pasta salad.
- Stuffing: The larger cavity is perfect for stuffing with crabmeat or other fillings before baking.
One of the main advantages of using pre-cooked 16/20 shrimp is the reduced preparation time. Since they are already cooked, they only need to be warmed through or thawed for cold applications. Overcooking is the main risk with cooked shrimp, so using a quick-cooking method like a gentle sauté or simply adding them to a hot dish near the end of the process is best.
How to Select and Prepare 16/20 Cooked Shrimp
When shopping for pre-cooked 16/20 shrimp, you will most often find them frozen. Many sources suggest that unless you live near the coast, frozen shrimp is the freshest option because it is flash-frozen on the boat shortly after being caught.
To prepare frozen cooked shrimp, follow these steps:
- Thawing: For best results, thaw frozen shrimp in the refrigerator overnight. For a quicker method, place the shrimp in a colander under a stream of cold running water for a few minutes until thawed.
- Rinsing: Rinse the thawed shrimp thoroughly under cold water to remove any ice glaze or preservatives. Pat them dry with a paper towel before using.
- Cooking: If adding to a hot dish, add the shrimp at the very end and cook for only 1-2 minutes, just until warmed through. They are already cooked, so they will turn rubbery if overdone.
A Comparison of Shrimp Sizes and Nutritional Profiles
Here is a comparative look at how different shrimp sizes, based on their count per pound, stack up in terms of use and nutrition, using estimated values for a 3-ounce serving.
| Feature | 16/20 (Extra Jumbo) | 31/40 (Large) | 51/60 (Small) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Count Per Pound | 16-20 | 31-40 | 51-60 |
| Serving Size (3 oz) | 4-5 shrimp | 8-10 shrimp | 12-15 shrimp |
| Primary Use | Grilling, cocktail, main entree | Pasta, scampi, stir-fry | Soups, salads, dips, toppings |
| Estimated Calories (Cooked) | ~70-80 kcal | ~80-90 kcal | ~80-90 kcal |
| Estimated Protein (Cooked) | ~14-18g | ~14-17g | ~14-17g |
| Estimated Fat (Cooked) | ~0.5-1.5g | ~1-2g | ~1-2g |
As the table demonstrates, while the individual size changes, the overall nutritional profile per standard serving size remains quite consistent across different shrimp counts. The choice of size is largely a culinary one, based on presentation and how the shrimp will be used in a dish.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Nutrition Diet
Understanding what does 16 20 cooked shrimp mean is the first step to making an informed decision for your meals. This number refers to the count per pound, and 16/20 signifies a large, 'Extra Jumbo' shrimp ideal for stand-alone preparations and impressive presentations. From a nutrition diet perspective, shrimp of any size offers a great source of lean protein with minimal fat and calories. For those monitoring sodium, it's wise to check the packaging, especially for pre-cooked options. By considering both the culinary application and your personal nutrition goals, you can confidently choose the perfect shrimp for your next dish. For more information on seafood standards and consumption guidelines, visit the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
