13 Chum Salmon Facts You Need to Know for a Healthy Diet

Chum meat is a widely used salmon with global cultural ties. This article will provide you with various facts about chum meat that you might not know, which are all supported by evidence and research. Discover where chum meat is sourced, how it’s cooked, and what benefits you’ll have upon eating it.

1. Chum meat can be referred to as dog salmon, keta salmon, calico salmon, and chub. Its scientific name, however, is Oncorhynchus keta. In Japanese, it’s called Sake; in Italy, it’s called Salmone Keta.

2. Chum fish can be found in various places like the North Pacific, the Arctic Coast of Canada, and northern coastal areas of North America and Asia. In the United States, you will find them in Alaska and the West Coast. These fish are abundantly found in these areas, but the population is usually affected by changes in oceans, climate, and water quality.

3. Young fish babies are usually found in freshwater bodies, while adult fish migrate to oceans, where they feed and return to the freshwater body to lay eggs. 

4. Chum meat has less oil than other wild salmon, owing to its mild flavor. It’s also known for being the meatiest and firmest salmon fish. However, people don’t like how dry it’s.

5. Chum meat’s color mainly differs from where the fish is found and what it has eaten. Generally, the color is pink or orange. The hue is also considered more pale compared to other salmon fish.

6. It’s more affordable than other salmon fish because of its mild and dryness. Customers don’t like how dry and mild it’s. However, if you’re looking for an affordable option for salmon fish, chum meat can be one if you cook it well. However, their market value is high in Japan and Russia because residents widely consume them. 

7. Common ways of cooking chum meat are baking, grilling, boiling, and poaching. It can easily become dry, so don’t overcook it. Because of its versatility, it’s an ingredient in many popular dishes, such as salmon cake and salmon tacos.

8. It’s hugely beneficial for those experiencing heart problems as it contains high protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Other than helping with heart disease, it also nourishes the skin. The natural oils present in the salmons rejuvenate dead tissues and leave the skin looking hydrated.

9. Chum meat is generally mild, so seasonings need to be added to it. It pairs easily with many spices like Cajun, paprika, and herbs. 

10. Chum fish was a big part of Native North American culture. In some cultures, it’s a symbol of abundance because of how many they’re in the oceans, while in others, they’re a symbol of power and never giving up. 

11. On the West Coast, chum fish are preserved by NOAA Fisheries and Pacific Fishery Management Council. They ensure that harvests are sustainable. Even though the population of chum salmon is high, issues like overfishing can happen.

12. You need not worry about the high mercury content of chum salmon. It has less mercury than other salmon fish. People don’t like consuming much mercury because it can lead to difficulty sleeping or, worse, kidney damage.

13. Chum meat can’t only be consumed by human beings but also by animals. Pet owners like it for its affordability and how it’s a good source of nutrients such as protein and multivitamins. 

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you!

What is chum in food?

Chum is a species of salmon that has a pinkish color.  It contains a low amount of oil, making it rather mild than other salmon fish. chum fish can be found in various places like the North Pacific, the Arctic Coast of Canada, and northern coastal areas of North America and Asia. It’s mostly canned or smoked and sold commercially.

Is chum edible for humans?

Yes, it is. Chum is a common food eaten by people of Japan and Russia. It’s of high value there, typically eaten as roe. It contains high protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Chum meat is usually paired with various seasonings like paprika and is known for its versatility while cooking.

What is the taste of chum?

Chum has a relatively mild flavor with a meaty, firm texture. Though some describe it as salty and somewhat oily, it’s worth noting that it has lower fat and oil content than other types of salmon.

Why is it called chum?

The name “chum salmon” originates from the Chinook Jargon, a trading language used among Indigenous peoples and early European settlers in the Pacific Northwest region of North America. The word “chum” in Chinook Jargon refers to anything that is mixed or pounded into small pieces.