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Where does Red Lobster source its seafood?
Red Lobster, known for its delicious seafood offerings, has long been a favorite destination for seafood lovers. With an extensive menu featuring a variety of seafood delights such as Atlantic salmon, snow crab legs, fried flounder, and, of course, lobster, it’s no wonder that diners often wonder where the seafood served at Red Lobster comes from. In this article, we delve into Red Lobster’s sourcing practices to find out exactly where their seafood comes from.
The Quest for Transparency
In the past, Red Lobster’s seafood sourcing practices were shrouded in mystery. In recent years, however, the company has taken steps toward greater transparency. As of late 2021, Red Lobster’s “Seafood With Standards” page provides some insight into the sourcing origins of its seafood. While the restaurant sources seafood from various locations around the world, the specific source depends on the type of seafood being served.
Shrimp from South America and Asia
Red Lobster’s succulent shrimp offerings are sourced from areas in South America and Asia. These include the waters off Ecuador, India and China. The diverse array of shrimp dishes on the menu are sourced from these regions, where the shrimp are harvested and brought to your plate.
Lobsters from different waters
If you’re a lobster lover and choose a lobster dish at Red Lobster, the origin of your lobster will depend on the type of lobster you choose. Maine lobster, famous for its sweet and tender meat, comes from the waters of Maine. Norwegian lobster, on the other hand, comes from parts of the North Atlantic and North Sea. The Caribbean rock lobster and shrimp dish features rock lobster from the waters near Brazil and the Caribbean. In addition, the creamy lobster baked potato features langostino, a type of lobster found in the Pacific Ocean near Chile. Each variety offers a distinct flavor profile that adds to the Red Lobster dining experience.
Dungeness crab from the Bering Sea and North Atlantic Gulf
Red Lobster’s snow crabs, known for their tender and flavorful meat, come from the Bering Sea near Alaska and the North Atlantic Gulf off Canada. The adventurous souls among us may have seen these snow crabs caught on the popular “Deadliest Catch” show on the Discovery Channel. These pristine waters provide the ideal habitat for these delicious crustaceans.
Salmon, trout, cod and flounder from a variety of locations
When it comes to salmon, Red Lobster turns to farmed salmon from Chile. Chilean salmon has a rich, buttery flavor that pairs well with a variety of preparations. Rainbow trout, another popular seafood option, is sourced from Colombia. For cod and flounder, Red Lobster looks to the Bering Sea. These cold waters provide the ideal environment for these white, flaky varieties of fish.
Freshness and Quality Assurance
One question that often arises when discussing seafood sourcing is the freshness of the seafood served at Red Lobster. The restaurant strives to serve fresh seafood whenever possible. However, to ensure the highest quality, some seafood is frozen on the fishing boats or immediately upon arrival at the dock before being shipped to the restaurants. This meticulous process ensures that the seafood retains its freshness and flavor until it reaches your plate.
Bottom line
Red Lobster sources its seafood from various locations around the world, ensuring a diverse and exciting menu for seafood lovers. From shrimp harvested in South America and Asia to lobster from Maine, the North Atlantic and the Caribbean, Red Lobster offers a wide range of flavors and culinary experiences. In addition, snow crab from Alaska and Canada, as well as salmon, trout, cod and flounder from various regions, contribute to the restaurant’s reputation for quality seafood. So the next time you indulge in a seafood feast at Red Lobster, you can appreciate the journey your meal has taken from the water to your plate, bringing the flavors of the sea right to your table.
FAQS
Where does Red Lobster source its shrimp?
Red Lobster shrimp are sourced from areas in South America and Asia, including waters off Ecuador, India and China.
What are the origins of Red Lobster’s lobster varieties?
The specific sources of Red Lobster’s lobster varieties vary. Maine lobster is found in Maine waters, while Norwegian lobster comes from parts of the North Atlantic and North Sea. Rock lobster, served as part of the Caribbean rock lobster and shrimp dish, comes from the waters near Brazil and the Caribbean Sea. Langostino, used in the creamy lobster baked potato, is found in the Pacific near Chile.
Where do Red Lobster’s snow crabs come from?
Red Lobster sources its snow crabs from the Bering Sea near Alaska and the North Atlantic Gulf off Canada.
Where do Red Lobster’s salmon and trout come from?
Red Lobster’s salmon is farmed in Chile and its rainbow trout is sourced from the Columbia River.
Where does Red Lobster source its cod and flounder?
Red Lobster sources its cod and flounder from the Bering Sea.
Is the seafood served at Red Lobster fresh?
Red Lobster strives to serve fresh seafood whenever possible. However, to ensure quality, some seafood is frozen on the fishing boats or as soon as it reaches the dock before being shipped to restaurants.