Fish are a great addition to any meal. Not only do they taste superb, but they’re also low in calories and high in nutrients. It’s no wonder why so many people love to eat fish.
Unfortunately, purchasing fish can be difficult. Aside from the usual problems of shopping online (“Are these fresh?”), you have the additional challenge of determining how much each fish costs. It’s not always easy to find out the price of fish before you even know how much it is you want. This article will clear up any confusion surrounding the cost of fish in the United Kingdom, helping you to determine how much your next fish dinner will cost you.
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The Varieties Of Fish Available
Depending on where you live, the variety of fish available for purchase may vary. For example, UK supermarkets may only sell fresh or frozen fish, while fishmongers may offer a greater choice of fresh or frozen fish. The variety of fish available will directly affect the prices of the items.
There are also several varieties of fish which are more expensive than others. Fresh, local salmon is a luxurious addition to any meal, but it can set you back a pretty penny. Similarly, eating a live shark can be both thrilling and terrifying at the same time. The cost of such a meal depends on the size of the fish – the bigger the shark, the higher the price. As with most things in life, bigger isn’t always better, and in this case, sometimes it can really cost you more.
When it comes to choosing fish, many people focus on the size of the fish or the type of fish – focusing either on cheap, easy-to-cook fish or premium, sustainable fish. While these are important factors to consider, the type of oil the fish is cooked in can also have a significant impact on the price. For example, light olive oil is extremely affordable, while extra-virgin olive oil can cost as much as double the price of regular olive oil.
The Cost Of A Pint Or A Quart
Pint-sized fish are considerably cheaper than their quart-sized counterparts, which makes them a more affordable addition to your weekly shop. If you’re buying a whole fish, the price difference is even more significant. A pint-sized fish will set you back a third of the price of a quart-sized fish. For example, a salmon meal from New World Fresh will cost you £13.99 for a pint, but £22.99 for a quart.
If you’re looking to indulge in some fresh fish this week, opt for a pint-sized fish. Not only will they be cheaper, but you’ll also avoid any over-ordering issues should you run into any at home.
The Cost Of A Family Pack
If you’re buying more than one portion of fish, whether it’s for yourself or someone else, it’s always a good idea to buy a family pack. This way, you save money on individual portions (such as a pack of four salmon fillets) while still having enough for everyone to eat. The amount of fish in a family pack will determine how much each portion costs. For example, a family pack of salmon will set you back £6.99 as opposed to £13.99 for a single portion.
What’s more, if you buy the right variety of fish, you don’t necessarily have to buy individual portions. Certain fish varieties can be bought in larger quantities, which makes them cheaper and a better value for money. For example, cod is generally cheaper when bought in large quantities, rather than individual portions. A five-a-side box of mixed seafood is on sale at selected Asda and Tesco stores for £5.49, which makes five portions of fish perfectly enough for one meal. This is especially beneficial for those families who want to eat fish but can’t afford to buy individual portions regularly.
Fresh Or Frozen
When it comes to choosing fish, fresh or frozen is always an important question. As with most other foods, the freshness and the quality of fish affect its price. In addition, choosing fresh ensures you get the best possible taste, while frozen ensures you get what you pay for (and nothing more).
If you can, choose fresh fish whenever possible. The taste will surprise you, and it also prevents many of the food-safety risks that come with frozen food. However, there are times when frozen fish are cheaper, especially during the off-season (winter and early spring) or if you’re buying in large quantities. Many supermarkets offer cheap frozen fish during the off-season, when demand is at its lowest. During the peak season, demand for fresh fish outstrips the supply, so prices rise.
The Final Word
To conclude, fish are an excellent source of food for those who are looking to indulge. If you want to indulge this week but don’t want to spend an excessive amount of money, fish are a perfect choice. Make sure to choose the right variety and size, however, to get the best possible meal without paying more than you should.