Difference Between Albacore and Tuna

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Albacore vs Tuna

Tuna is one of the most sought after food items nowadays. It’s not just because of its taste rather it is most likely because of its health benefits. Nevertheless, there are many types of tunas and these are: the bluefin, yellowfin, skipjack, bigeye, bonito, blackfin
and the albacore. The latter is marketed as white meat. In fact, it is the only tuna among the seven types that is hailed as having the truest white meat. In the grocery stores it can also be marked as ‘fancy white’ or simple ‘white tuna.’ This is probably the reason why it’s more expensive that regular tuna.

Albacore tuna is dubbed as the second largest commercial catch in the U.S., after the yellowfin tuna. This fish is usually obtained from the eastern Pacific oceanic areas. In this connection, regular tuna usually comes from yellowfin because of this big catch.

Moreover, this is also the reason why yellowfin and albacrore are the two tuna types that are readily available at sea food restaurants and sushi bars. At these food spots, albacore is usually prepared as sushi or sashimi especially at the Japanese restaurants.

Unlike ordinary tunas, albacore also contains more omega 3 fatty acids. This makes it a healthier food choice that is good for one’s heart and even fights certain types of cancer. These fatty acids actually increase the total fat content and calorie value of the product. This is not that bad at all since, as mentioned, this is a good type of fat.

Contrary to the claim of other people, albacore tuna has a low amount of mercury, says a recent finding by the FDA. Nevertheless, it is also true that not all albacores are the same. This means that some canned albacores are healthier while some may not be that healthy. The reason for such is on the handling of the fish upon catching, packaging and also the size of the tuna itself. Adding other fillers like soy, water and vegetable broth may degrade the full taste of the albacore. Regarding fish size, it is said that fishing smaller albacores are better tasting that the bigger fishes.

In summary:

Albacore has a non metallic and a non-fishy taste compared to regular tuna. It is said to have the lightest flesh, not to mention, the mildest tuna flavor around.

Albacore is priced higher than regular tuna

Albacore has more fats and calories than regular tuna.

According to a recent FDA report, in moderation, albacore has lower mercury levels than other tuna products.

5. Albacore is a specific type of tuna while tuna is a more general term that has many subtypes like bluefin and yellowfin among others.


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