1 Oz. (28.3 G) Shark, raw provides 37 calories per serving. Shark meat is a delicacy that is widely consumed around the world. It is a rich source of nutrients like protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins B12 and D. However, before consuming shark meat, it is important to consider its health benefits and safety precautions.

Shark meat is a low-fat protein source that is healthy and nutritious. It contains essential amino acids that are beneficial for muscle growth and repair. Additionally, shark meat is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for heart health and can help lower the risk of stroke and heart disease.

In this article, we'll discuss the nutritional value of shark meat, its health benefits, and how to cook and consume it safely.

Calories in Raw Shark

Raw shark meat provides 37 calories per serving. This may vary depending on the specific type and cut of shark meat consumed. For example, a serving of cooked Mako shark steak contains approximately 232 calories.

Nutritional Value of Shark Meat

Shark meat is an excellent source of protein and contains essential amino acids that the body cannot produce on its own. It is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to be beneficial for heart health. In addition to protein and omega-3s, shark meat is also a good source of vitamins and minerals like vitamin B12, vitamin D, magnesium, and selenium.

Health Benefits of Consuming Shark Meat

Consuming shark meat can have several health benefits. Shark meat is a good source of protein, which is important for building and repairing muscles. The amino acids in shark meat can also help improve immune function and support the growth of healthy skin, hair, and nails. Additionally, the omega-3 fatty acids in shark meat can help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. However, it is important to note that pregnant women and children should avoid consuming shark meat due to potential mercury contamination.

How to Cook Shark Meat?

Shark meat can be cooked in a variety of ways, including grilling, broiling, baking, and frying. Before cooking, it is important to remove any skin and cut away any visible fat. Shark meat should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure that it is safe to eat.

Popular Shark Recipes

Some popular shark recipes include grilled shark steak, baked shark with a lemon garlic butter sauce, and shark tacos. Shark meat can also be used in soups, stews, and curries.

Shark Dishes from Various Cuisines

Shark meat is used in various cuisines around the world. In Asia, shark fins are commonly used in soups and are considered a delicacy. In Iceland, hakarl, or fermented shark meat, is a traditional food that is eaten as a snack. In the Bahamas and the Caribbean, conch and shark are often used in soups and stews.

Shark as a High Protein Source

Shark meat is a high protein source that is low in fat and carbohydrates. A 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving of cooked shark contains approximately 21 grams of protein.

Shark vs. Other Seafood Options

Compared to other seafood options, shark meat is a good source of low-fat protein. However, it is important to note that some shark species may contain high levels of mercury, which can be harmful to health. Other seafood options like salmon, cod, and shrimp are also good sources of protein and can provide a variety of nutrients.

Things to Consider Before Eating Shark Meat

Before consuming shark meat, it is important to consider the potential health hazards. Some shark species may contain high levels of mercury, which can be harmful to health, especially for pregnant women and children. Additionally, shark fishing practices can be harmful to the environment, and some species of sharks are endangered. It is important to purchase shark meat from a reputable source and to ensure that it has been properly inspected and tested for contaminants.

Shark Meat Safety Precautions

To ensure that shark meat is safe to consume, it should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). It is also important to handle shark meat with care and to avoid cross-contamination with other foods. Additionally, pregnant women and children should avoid consuming shark meat due to potential mercury contamination.