What seafood is good for carnivore diet? A guide to nutrient-dense options

November 9, 2025 •

4 min read

Adding a variety of seafood to the carnivore diet can provide a crucial source of nutrients often found in fatty fish, including essential omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for brain and heart health. Find out what seafood is good for carnivore diet to ensure a broader nutrient intake while enjoying diverse animal-based proteins.

Quick Summary

The carnivore diet can benefit from a variety of seafood options, including fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, lean fish such as cod and tilapia, and shellfish like shrimp, crab, and oysters. These foods provide essential omega-3s, protein, and other micronutrients, helping prevent deficiencies and adding culinary diversity. Considerations for preparation and sourcing, such as mercury content, are important for a balanced approach.

Key Points

Fatty Fish Provide Omega-3s: Oily fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are crucial for brain and heart health on a carnivore diet, as they are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids.
Shellfish Offer Micronutrients: Shrimp, oysters, and crab add significant nutrient variety, including minerals like zinc and selenium, which can be less abundant in muscle meats.
Mind Mercury Levels: To minimize heavy metal exposure, prioritize smaller, shorter-lived fish and shellfish, which typically have lower mercury concentrations.
Check Canned Seafood Labels: When buying canned options like sardines or tuna, always choose those packed in water and free of non-carnivore additives like seed oils.
Use Animal Fats for Lean Fish: To maintain a high-fat intake with leaner fish options such as cod or tilapia, cook them in compliant animal fats like tallow or butter.
Sourcing Matters for Quality: Wild-caught seafood is often preferred for its superior nutrient profile, but responsibly sourced farmed fish can also be a good option for variety and budget.

For those following a carnivore diet, which consists exclusively of animal products, seafood is a valuable and nutrient-dense food group that can add significant variety and essential fatty acids. While beef, pork, and poultry form the foundation of this eating plan, incorporating fish and shellfish can prevent nutritional deficiencies and expand culinary horizons. This guide explores the best seafood choices, focusing on nutritional benefits and important considerations.

Fatty Fish: Omega-3 Powerhouses

Fatty fish are among the most celebrated seafood choices for any diet, and they hold a special place on a carnivore diet due to their high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids. These essential fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA, are renowned for their anti-inflammatory properties and benefits for heart and brain health. They are difficult to source in sufficient quantities from other land-based animal meats, making fish a vital component of a well-rounded carnivore approach. When selecting, consider opting for wild-caught versions where possible, as they often have a more favorable nutrient profile.

Best Fatty Fish Options:

Salmon: A popular choice for a reason, salmon is rich in protein, B vitamins, and an abundance of omega-3s. It is a versatile fish that can be grilled, pan-seared, or baked. Sourcing matters, so look for wild Alaskan salmon if possible.
Mackerel: Small, oily, and flavorful, mackerel is packed with omega-3s and is also a great source of vitamin B12 and selenium. It's a budget-friendly option that's often available tinned, which can be convenient for a quick meal or snack.
Sardines: These small, canned fish are convenient, loaded with omega-3s, and provide significant vitamin D and calcium from their edible bones. Choosing sardines packed in spring water or olive oil is recommended, as some preparations use seed oils that are not carnivore-compliant.
Trout: Particularly freshwater trout, it is another solid option for fatty fish. It provides a good dose of omega-3s and has a milder flavor than some other oily fish.

Shellfish: The Unsung Nutrient Heroes

Shellfish offer a unique textural and flavor experience while also providing a dense array of micronutrients that can be scarce in a beef-only carnivore diet. These tiny creatures are particularly rich in minerals like zinc, selenium, and copper, as well as vitamin B12. Many shellfish options are low in carbohydrates in their natural state, making them a safe and beneficial addition.

Best Shellfish Options:

Shrimp: High in protein and low in fat, shrimp are a quick and easy option for adding variety. They contain important nutrients like selenium, iodine, and vitamin B12. Be aware of pre-seasoned or processed varieties that may contain non-carnivore ingredients.
Oysters: Known for their high zinc content, oysters are an excellent source of all three major omega-3 classes and vitamin B12. They can be eaten raw, steamed, or cooked, depending on preference.
Crab and Lobster: These shellfish are prized for their flavor and lean protein. While they can be more expensive, they offer a delicious way to change up meals. Sourcing fresh, wild-caught options is often preferred.
Scallops: Pan-seared scallops are a carnivore-friendly delicacy. Like shrimp, they provide lean protein and a different texture.

Leaner Fish for Variety and Lean Protein

While fatty fish are emphasized for their omega-3 content, leaner fish can also provide high-quality protein and a milder flavor. For those who prefer the taste or need a lower-fat meal, lean fish offer a great alternative. To keep energy levels high, it is important to add a healthy animal fat, such as tallow, butter, or ghee, when preparing leaner fish.

Best Lean Fish Options:

Cod: A flaky, white fish that is a good source of protein and several B vitamins.
Tilapia: A mild and affordable white fish that is easy to prepare. Ensure it is sourced well to avoid potentially less healthy farming practices.
Haddock: Similar to cod, haddock is another lean, white fish that offers a solid protein source.

Important Considerations for Seafood on a Carnivore Diet

Heavy Metal Concerns

Heavy metal accumulation, particularly mercury, is a common concern with seafood consumption. Mercury accumulates through the food chain, meaning larger, longer-lived predatory fish tend to have higher concentrations. To minimize exposure, focus on smaller, shorter-lived fish.

Sourcing and Preparation

Canned vs. Fresh: Canned seafood, like sardines and mackerel, is a convenient option. Always check the label to ensure it is packed in water or a compliant oil and free of non-carnivore additives.
Cooking Fats: When cooking seafood, use animal fats like beef tallow, lard, or butter to stay within the carnivore guidelines.
Wild-Caught vs. Farmed: Wild-caught fish are generally preferred for their nutritional profile and lower exposure to contaminants. However, farmed fish can also be a viable, often more budget-friendly, option.

Seafood Comparison Table


Seafood Type	Omega-3s (EPA/DHA)	Protein Content	Mercury Risk	Other Key Nutrients
Salmon	High	High	Low	B Vitamins, Magnesium, Potassium
Sardines	High	High	Low	Vitamin D, Calcium, Selenium
Mackerel	High	High	Low	B12, Selenium
Tuna (Canned Light)	Moderate	High	Low-Moderate	Selenium, B12
Cod	Low	High	Low	Niacin, B12, Phosphorus
Shrimp	Low	High	Very Low	Selenium, Iodine, B12
Oysters	Moderate (all 3 omega-3s)	High	Very Low	Zinc, B12

Conclusion: The Importance of Variety

For those adhering to the carnivore diet, incorporating a variety of seafood is one of the most effective strategies for maintaining optimal nutrition and preventing monotony. From the rich, healthy fats of salmon and mackerel to the diverse minerals found in shellfish like oysters and shrimp, seafood provides a host of benefits that complement a meat-based diet. By making mindful choices regarding sourcing, such as favoring smaller fish to mitigate mercury concerns, followers can ensure they are receiving a wide spectrum of essential nutrients. Exploring the aquatic animal kingdom offers both nutritional advantages and culinary excitement, making seafood a staple for a thriving carnivore diet.

Learn more about Omega-3s from the Cleveland Clinic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, seafood is allowed and highly recommended on the carnivore diet. It adds crucial nutrients, especially omega-3 fatty acids, and provides welcome variety.

Smaller, shorter-lived fish and shellfish like sardines, salmon, mackerel, and shrimp typically have lower mercury levels. Large predatory fish like bigeye tuna and swordfish should be consumed less frequently.

Canned tuna is a convenient carnivore option, but it's important to choose varieties packed in water and check the label for any non-carnivore ingredients like soy broth or added sugars.

Salmon, mackerel, and sardines are all excellent high-fat seafood choices, providing healthy fats and protein. Using extra tallow or butter is recommended when cooking leaner fish.

Yes, shellfish like shrimp, crab, oysters, and scallops are safe and can provide essential nutrients. They are 100% carnivore-compliant in their pure form.

Seafood can be cooked simply by grilling, pan-searing, steaming, or boiling. Use compliant animal fats like tallow, butter, or lard to prepare the dish and boost fat content.

Wild-caught fish may have a cleaner nutrient profile and lower exposure to contaminants. However, farm-raised fish can be a more affordable and accessible option, and both are suitable for the carnivore diet.