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Snapper » Mutton snapper

	Eco-OK Fish
	OK for the environment - enjoy in moderation

Health Alert

Elevated levels of mercury.

Adults and kids should limit their meals.

Related Fish

Recommendations
Eco-Best Mahimahi from U.S. caught by troll/pole Farmed striped bass Sablefish from Alaska or Canada	Eco-OK Yellowtail snapper	Eco-Worst Red snapper Imported snapper Vermilion snapper Silk snapper

Recommendations

Details About Mutton snapper

a.k.a. Lutjanus analis, muttonfish, pargo, pargo criollo

Health Details

Due to elevated mercury levels we recommend:
- Women should eat no more than 3 meals per month
- Men should eat no more than 2 meals per month
- Kids age 6-12 should eat no more than 2 meals per month
- Kids up to age 6 should eat no more than 1 meal per month

More about seafood and health »

Eco Details

Mutton snapper is thought to be more abundant than its better-known cousin, the red snapper. But no formal assessment of its population status has been undertaken; whether it is overfished is unknown.

Snappers are usually caught with hook-and-line and bottom longlines, which can result in significant bycatch of other reef fish species.

Nutritional Information

Serving = 100 g of raw edible food, wild species.

	Amount per serving
Calories	100 g
Total Fat	1.34 g
Total Protein	20.5 g
Omega-3	0.31 g
Cholesterol	37 mg
Sodium	64 mg

Source: USDA

More About Mutton snapper

The mutton snapper's black eyespot on its upper back helps foil predators into attacking in the wrong place. Mutton snappers grow to 2.5 feet (76 cm) and can live to 14 years. They are overfished in many areas and are often marketed as red snapper.

Commercial Sources

Mutton snapper are found in the western Atlantic, from Massachusetts to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean.

Capture Methods

Mutton snapper come from marine fisheries, not fish farms. They are primarily caught with hooks-and-lines, traps and gillnets. Additional types of fishing gear include trawls and spears.

Buying & Eating Guide

Flavor and Texture

Snapper has a firm texture, with lean, white flesh and a sweet flavor.

Buying Tips

Snapper is marketed fresh or frozen. Look for fish with clear, red eyes. Skin is brilliant red fading to pinkish silver. Commercial catch is usually under 10 pounds.

This guide is produced in collaboration with the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

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