Salmon is a popular fish that is enjoyed by many people around the world. It’s no surprise that Ikea, the Swedish furniture giant, has made salmon a staple on their menu.
But the question remains: is Ikea salmon good? Some people rave about it, while others are less impressed.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Ikea’s salmon offerings and explore the factors that contribute to its taste and quality.
Whether you’re a fan of Ikea or just curious about their salmon, read on to find out more.
Is Ikea Salmon Good?
The answer to this question is not a simple yes or no. It depends on a few factors, such as the type of salmon, how it’s prepared, and personal taste preferences.
Ikea offers several types of salmon, including filet, gravlax (cured salmon), and salmon balls. The quality of the salmon can vary depending on where it’s sourced from and how it’s raised.
However, Ikea has made a commitment to using certified fish in their restaurants and Swedish Food Markets. This means that their salmon comes from farms that respect the environment, the rights of workers, and the interests of the local community.
In terms of preparation, some people love Ikea’s salmon dishes while others are less impressed. The gravlax, in particular, has received high praise for its fresh and quality ingredients and impeccable combination of flavors.
On the other hand, some customers have found the salmon to be rubbery or lacking in flavor. It’s important to note that taste is subjective and what one person loves, another may not.
Ikea’s Salmon Selection
One of Ikea’s newest salmon offerings is their salmon balls, which are made from ASC-certified salmon and MSC-certified cod. These salmon balls are seasoned with seaweed and lemongrass to capture “the fresh taste of cold Nordic sea.” Ikea worked closely with their suppliers to optimize the process and create a tasty source of protein with a lower carbon footprint.
During the test of the salmon balls in Portugal, over 80% of restaurant guests who tried them said they liked them and almost 90% of customers appreciated the salmon balls as a more sustainable option. Ikea has since introduced the salmon balls to its U.S.-based stores and plans to expand the offerings to other international markets soon.
Ikea’s commitment to using certified fish in their restaurants and Swedish Food Markets extends to their seafood selection, which includes over 23 different certified seafood species such as salmon, herring, and shrimp. This makes Ikea the food service provider offering the largest variety of certified seafood globally. The MSC and ASC certification programs are globally recognized as the world’s most credible, science-based standards for sustainable and responsible seafood.
The Farming And Sourcing Of Ikea Salmon
Ikea’s commitment to using certified fish has been a gamechanger for the farmed salmon sector. The company sources its salmon from farms that follow the standards set by the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) and the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC). These standards cover issues such as protection of wild stocks from escapees, local water quality, a ban on the prophylactic use of antibiotics, treatment of employees, and engagement with the local community.
The ASC standard is considered to be the most robust and credible program for aquaculture. Ikea’s commitment to using certified fish means that customers can be assured that the salmon served in their restaurants and Swedish Food Markets comes from farms that respect the environment, the rights of workers, and the interests of the local community.
Ikea’s sourcing of local ingredients also plays a role in their commitment to sustainability. Half of the food served at stores is sourced locally, reducing emissions required for transporting and storing food items. This not only reduces carbon footprint but also strengthens local communities by supporting local food producers.
While some critics argue that certification schemes alone are not enough to safeguard against environmental damage, Ikea’s commitment to using certified fish is a step in the right direction. The company offers over 23 different certified seafood species, making it the food service provider offering the largest variety of certified seafood globally.
The Taste And Texture Of Ikea Salmon
One of Ikea’s popular salmon dishes is the cooked salmon with dill sauce. The fish is adequately cooked but can be somewhat bland on its own. However, the cool and tangy dill sauce adds a burst of flavor that elevates the dish to a Scandinavian essential. The texture of the fish is firm and flaky, with a slight crispiness on the outside.
The spinach gratin that accompanies the salmon is pleasant overall, but some may find it lacking in spinach flavor and too creamy. When combined with the salmon and dill sauce, however, the flavors harmonize well together.
It’s important to note that taste preferences can vary greatly from person to person. Some may find the dish to be lacking in flavor or texture, while others may thoroughly enjoy it. It’s worth trying for yourself to see if it meets your personal taste preferences.
Nutritional Value Of Ikea Salmon
If you’re curious about the nutritional value of Ikea’s salmon dishes, there are a few things to keep in mind. One of the most popular dishes is the Ikea Salmon Fillet with Hollandaise Sauce, which contains 520 calories per serving.
While this may seem high, it’s important to remember that salmon is a great source of protein and healthy fats. The American Heart Association recommends eating at least two servings of fish per week, as it can help lower your risk of heart disease.
In addition to protein and healthy fats, salmon is also packed with important vitamins and minerals. It’s a good source of vitamin B12, vitamin D, and selenium, which are all essential for good health.
If you’re watching your sodium intake, it’s worth noting that some of Ikea’s salmon dishes can be high in sodium. For example, the smoked salmon sandwich contains 470mg of sodium per serving.
Customer Reviews And Opinions On Ikea Salmon
Customers have mixed opinions when it comes to Ikea salmon. Some have raved about the marinated salmon plate, calling it an elegant and delicious dish that is worth far more than its price tag. Others have been underwhelmed by the smoked salmon, finding it to be just an average piece of fish that can be found at any local bagel store.
The dill and mustard sauce that accompanies the smoked salmon has been praised by some as a classic pairing with the fish, while others have found it to be lacking in flavor. The side salad that comes with the dish has also been criticized for being dry and unimpressive.
In terms of price, Ikea’s salmon offerings are affordable compared to other retailers. The sustainable salmon packs are priced at $8 for a pack of 7 ounces, making them around $18 a pound. This makes Ikea a low-key secret for those looking for affordable and sustainable salmon.
Alternatives To Ikea Salmon
If you’re looking for alternatives to Ikea salmon, there are a few options to consider. Firstly, you can opt for wild-caught salmon instead of farmed salmon. Wild salmon is generally considered to be healthier and more sustainable than farmed salmon, as it’s free from antibiotics and other chemicals used in fish farming.
Another option is to look for sustainably farmed salmon from other suppliers. Many companies are now using alternative feeds and methods to reduce the impact of fish farming on the environment. For example, Leroy Seafood Group, Ikea’s Norwegian salmon supplier, is working on a project growing mussels and seaweed alongside its salmon farms to cut out waste. The mussels feed on salmon waste and eat sea lice, a parasite that infects salmon. While the seaweed, that also feeds on salmon waste, could potentially provide an alternative source of Omega-3 for salmon instead of wild fish.
Finally, you could also consider trying different types of salmon dishes from other restaurants or markets. There are many different ways to prepare and serve salmon, from grilled fillets to sushi rolls. Exploring different options can help you find the perfect dish that suits your taste preferences and dietary needs.
