Can You Eat Raw Salmon From Aldi? The Complete Guide

Eating raw salmon is a delicious way to enjoy the health benefits of this superfood fish. However, there are important safety factors to consider before consuming any raw seafood. Many grocery shoppers are curious if discount retailers like Aldi carry sushi or sashimi grade salmon safe for eating raw. This article will explore everything you need to know about the raw salmon selection at Aldi.

An Overview of Raw Salmon Benefits

Salmon is one of the most nutritious fish available It’s packed with protein, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, selenium, potassium, and more Eating salmon raw provides maximum nutrition since cooking can deplete some of these healthy compounds.

Potential benefits of raw salmon include:

• Boosting heart health due to omega-3s
• Supporting brain function and mood
• Improving skin and hair
• Reducing inflammation
• Strengthening bones and joints

Consuming salmon raw in dishes like sushi, sashimi, poke bowls, and crudo allows you to absorb more of its nutritional value. The rich, buttery taste and velvety texture also makes raw salmon a luxurious culinary experience.

Is Raw Salmon Safe to Eat?

Raw salmon generally poses a low risk of foodborne illness when handled properly. However there are a few safety concerns to note

• Parasites – Raw salmon can occasionally harbor parasitic worms that can infect humans if consumed. Proper freezing kills any parasites.

• Bacteria – Harmful bacteria like salmonella is rare in salmon, but possible if contaminated during processing. Proper storage and handling reduces this risk.

• Mercury – Large, predatory fish like salmon can contain traces of mercury. Consuming limited amounts of raw salmon poses little risk for most people. Those with mercury sensitivities may wish to limit intake.

• Allergies – Some people are allergic to salmon. Be aware of any food sensitivities before eating raw salmon.

Overall, raw salmon is reasonably safe for most people when sourced and stored correctly. Those at higher risk of infection or with seafood allergies should take extra precautions or avoid raw preparations.

What is Sushi Grade or Sashimi Grade Salmon?

You may see the terms “sushi grade” or “sashimi grade” associated with raw salmon products. Unfortunately, there are no legal standards around these terms in the United States. Any salmon sold as sushi or sashimi grade at grocery stores is essentially a marketing term rather than a regulated classification.

That said, reputable grocers understand customer expectations when labeling salmon as sushi/sashimi grade. This typically means:

• Salmon that is safe to eat raw
• High-quality, fresh cuts of salmon
• Salmon that has been previously frozen to eliminate parasites

The main thing to look for is if the packaging specifically states the salmon can be eaten raw. Freezing is also key for parasite destruction. If in doubt, ask your grocer or fishmonger for details to ensure the fish is suitable for raw consumption.

Does Aldi Sell Salmon Safe for Eating Raw?

The good news is yes, Aldi does carry salmon products that are safe and high-quality for eating raw! Here are some tips for finding sushi or sashimi grade salmon at Aldi:

Fresh Salmon Fillets

• Look for Atlantic salmon fillets from Norway, Chile, or Scotland. These are good options for eating raw.

• Check the packaging for terms like “sushi grade”, “sashimi”, or “ready to eat” indicating the salmon is safe for raw consumption.

• Fresh, never-frozen fillets are riskier since they may contain parasites. Make sure the package indicates if the salmon was previously frozen.

• Ask an Aldi employee if in doubt about a particular salmon’s suitability for raw preparations.

Smoked Salmon

• Aldi stocks smoked salmon in convenient packs that are perfect for homemade sushi rolls.

• Look for varieties labeled as “fully cooked” or “ready to eat” like the Specially Selected Smoked Salmon.

• Other smoked salmon may be lightly cooked and require further cooking. Check the package carefully if planning to eat raw.

Frozen Salmon

• Frozen, individually vacuum-packed fillets are a good option. The freezing process kills any potential parasites.

• Make sure the packaging states the salmon can be eaten raw or has terms like “sashimi”, “sushi”, or “sushi grade”.

• Let frozen salmon thaw overnight in the fridge before using for raw dishes.

With some careful label reading, it’s definitely possible to find raw-safe salmon fillets and smoked salmon at Aldi locations. Getting to know your store’s selection and asking questions can help determine the right salmon options for sushi, crudo, or other raw preparations.

Safely Thawing and Storing Raw Salmon from Aldi

Once you’ve selected a suitable raw salmon product at Aldi, proper storage and thawing is important for safety and quality. Here are some tips:

• If frozen, thaw overnight slowly in the refrigerator. Do not thaw at room temperature.

• Keep fresh or thawed salmon cold at 40°F or below. Use within 2 days.

• When thawing, place salmon on a plate to catch any drips and prevent contamination.

• Wash hands, prep tools, and surfaces before and after handling raw salmon.

• Avoid cross-contamination by keeping salmon away from cooked foods, produce, etc.

• Discard any salmon with an unpleasant odor or slimy texture.

Following basic raw seafood safety provides protection against potential bacteria, parasites, and viruses when preparing Aldi salmon for sushi, poke bowls, or other raw recipes.

Delicious Ways to Enjoy Raw Salmon from Aldi

Once you’ve sourced high-quality raw salmon from Aldi, there are endless delicious ways to enjoy it! Here are some raw salmon recipe ideas:

• Gravlax – Cure raw salmon with salt, sugar, and dill. Slice thin and enjoy with crackers, toast, or bagels.

• Ceviche – “Cook” thinly sliced salmon in citrus juice and toss with peppers, onions, cilantro.

• Poke Bowl – Dice raw salmon and mix with rice, veggies, avocado, and umami poke sauce.

• Sushi – Add raw salmon slices or diced salmon to maki, nigiri, sashimi, and hand rolls.

• Salmon Tartare – Finely chop or mince raw salmon and mix with capers, onion, lemon zest, and olive oil.

• Salmon Carpaccio – Thinly slice raw salmon and drizzle with olive oil and lime juice. Top with microgreens or tomato concasse.

• Lox Bagel – Enjoy nova smoked salmon from Aldi on a toasted everything bagel with cream cheese, tomato, and red onion.

With the proper selection and handling, you can definitely indulge in raw salmon sushi, sashimi, and other dishes using high-quality salmon from Aldi markets. Just take care in sourcing, storage, and preparation when eating any raw seafood. Have fun exploring the many innovative ways to enjoy the beautiful salmon selections available at Aldi. Your tastebuds will thank you!