Tag: Cooking mussels

While an old adage suggests eating mussels only in months with an 'R,' modern farming and refrigeration mean this delicious seafood is now available and safe to enjoy year-round. Today, the 'best time' often comes down to flavor preference rather than safety concerns.

According to the Food and Drug Administration, farmed mussels are one of the safest seafood options available, making it easy to see why so many people are drawn to them. But are saltwater mussels good to eat in general? The answer is a resounding yes, provided you know how to choose and prepare them properly.

Mussels are a genuine superfood, offering more protein and iron per calorie than steak. But when planning a meal, a crucial question arises: what is a portion size for mussels, especially given the significant weight of their shells?

According to a 2024 article from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, some experts consider mussels to be the most nutritious shellfish, containing high levels of vitamin B12, omega-3 fatty acids, and iron. The debate over which bivalve is superior often comes down to individual preference, but a closer look reveals distinct differences in their nutritional profiles, flavor, and culinary uses.

Mussels contain significantly more omega-3 fatty acids per ounce than shrimp, making them a potent source of this essential nutrient. However, the question of whether mussels are better than shrimp depends on individual priorities, encompassing factors from nutritional content and environmental impact to taste and cost.

According to Nutrivore, one serving of mussels is standardized to 4 ounces or about 115 grams of raw meat. This guide answers the common question, "how many mussels are in one serving?" by breaking down the recommendations for different meal types and preparations to help you master the perfect portion.

According to USDA data, a single medium mussel contains approximately 14 calories, making this shellfish a low-calorie addition to any diet. However, the total calorie count for a meal depends on the serving size and cooking method, so understanding the full nutritional profile is essential for healthy eating.