The Nutritional Value of Seafood: Why Restaurant Menus With More Seafood Options Attract Customers

The current restaurant landscape is more competitive than ever. To stand out from the crowd, restaurant managers and food service leaders must create menus that not only provide a wide range of options, but also offer benefits to the patron that go beyond flavor. In fact, more than 80 percent of U.S. consumers reported that healthy options on the menu played some role in their decision when choosing a restaurant.

With this in mind, restaurant owners and food service leaders should prioritize diversifying their menus with nutritious options. As they do so, seafood – namely shrimp – is a key tool they can use to add unique choices, nutritious plates, and perceived value to their menus.

Seafood as a Nutritional Powerhouse

Seafood is known for its exceptional nutritional value, providing high-quality protein, essential vitamins (such as B12), important minerals (like selenium and zinc), and omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA). These nutrients are crucial to overall health, including heart health, brain function, and immune support. Seafood is the primary source of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, which are associated with reduced risk of heart disease and cognitive decline. Because of its nutrient dense nature, regular consumption of omega-3-rich seafood can have significant health benefits .

Seafood also provides a high-quality source of complete protein, with all essential amino acids. Plus, it’s easier to digest than red meats and poultry , with lower comparative calorie counts. Most lean fish (such as cod, flounder, and sole) contain 100 calories or less per 3-ounce cooked portion. Even fattier fish (like mackerel, herring, and salmon) have around 200 calories in the same serving.  

To meet the growing demand for health-conscious menu options, restauranteurs and foodservice operators should consider the nutritional balance of their menu items. It is essential for restauranteurs to have a comprehensive understanding of how seafood options compare to other proteins on their menus. Finding the right balance of flavor profiles and proteins is a crucial step in maximizing any menu’s revenue potential.