Elevating Protein Intake: Shrimp as a Healthy Choice

More protein on the plate? Recent updates to U.S. dietary guidelines indicate a significant increase in recommended protein consumption, nearly doubling previous intake levels, making shrimp an exceptional dietary option.

The Shift in Dietary Guidelines

Every five years, the U.S. Departments of Agriculture and Health and Human Services release the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which provide essential nutrition advice. The latest edition, unveiled this week, reintroduces the Food Guide model with greater emphasis on protein, dairy, and healthy fats, alongside fruits and vegetables. The guidelines urge Americans to minimize ultra-processed foods and added sugars.

New Protein Recommendations

A key change in the guidelines is the focus on incorporating protein into every meal. Instead of the longstanding recommendation of 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight, the new guidelines suggest a higher range of 1.2 to 1.6 grams per kilogram. This adjustment warrants practical approaches to meet these elevated protein targets, highlighting the quality and type of protein on our plates.

Why Shrimp Stands Out

Shrimp emerges as the most popular seafood in the U.S., offering a well-rounded and responsible source of protein. A single serving of shrimp provides approximately 18 grams of complete lean protein, which includes all nine essential amino acids, omega-3 fatty acids, and various vitamins and minerals.

According to the Shrimp Nutrition Guide—a resource developed by the Sustainable Shrimp Partnership and the Seafood Nutrition Partnership—shrimp effectively replaces protein sources that are higher in saturated fat. With roughly half a gram of total fat per serving and virtually no carbohydrates or added sugars, shrimp fits seamlessly into balanced, protein-forward meals.

Beyond Protein: Shrimp’s Nutritional Benefits

Shrimp not only excels in protein content but also offers vital nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids and essential vitamins and minerals that support heart health, brain function, immune response, and weight management.

Encouraging Seafood Consumption

Health authorities advocate for increased seafood consumption. Organizations like the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, the American Heart Association, and the World Health Organization recommend consuming at least two servings of non-fried seafood each week.

Sustainability Considerations

As discussions surrounding sustainability in food choices gain traction, seafood emerges as one of the healthiest animal protein options when responsibly sourced. The EAT-Lancet Commission highlights that fisheries and aquaculture can deliver high-quality protein while adhering to environmental limits when managed appropriately.

Conclusion: Shrimp’s Role in a Healthier Diet

With protein taking a central role in the American diet, shrimp offers a lean and versatile option that aligns with evolving nutritional guidelines and the larger dialogue around sustainable food systems.

To delve deeper into the nutritional advantages of shrimp, download the Shrimp Nutrition Guide here: English version / Spanish version.

Image Credit: SSP