WHAT IS POLLACK?
Depending on which side of the Atlantic you’re on, this whitefish goes by many names including Silver Bill, Boston Blue or Lythe. To make this even more confusing, pollock and pollack fish are slightly different types of cod. Delicate yet flaky, pollack is low in oil, making it less healthy but its flavor makes it more appealing for some palates. Capable of growing up to 50 lbs (23 kg.) in size, this is a deep water fish thriving as far down as 600 feet (179 meters) requiring long line fishing. Among the less expensive fish, it’s often the main ingredient in imitation crab meat.
WHERE DOES POLLACK COME FROM?
The name was originally a German term to describe any dried, white fish. Today the majority of these fish are found in the Bering Sea. However while they account for over 60% of all the fish caught in this region, record warm temperatures have been having a negative impact on their main food source, krill. This in turn results in higher infant mortality rates and smaller adult fish in general.
WHEN IS POLLACK IN SEASON?
They have two seasons, winter and early Fall.
IS POLLACK HIGH IN MERCURY?
No it’s considered to be low in mercury and safe for periodic consumption. They have lower levels on average then salmon or squid.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN POLLACK AND COD?
Cod tends to be a bit more expensive in price, but both are mild and delicious options! Ironically this fish is a member of the Cod family, and so these species are often confused. Cod tend to prefer slightly warmer waters then pollack giving the latter a slightly firmer texture. While Boston Blues can grow up to 3 feet (0.9 meters) in length, Cod can easily double that in size while living twice as long. Pacific Cod in general have catfish-like whiskers on their chin while this fish does not.
