Costco’s New Crunchy Seafood-Inspired Snack: A Must-Try for Pescatarian and Allergy-Conscious Snackers
Costco’s new seafood snack has fans buzzing—and for good reason. According to Parade.com, Costco recently launched a crunchy, seafood-inspired snack that combines high-quality fish protein, a satisfyingly crisp texture, and globally inspired seasonings. Whether you follow a pescatarian diet, are managing seafood allergies, or simply love a new snack adventure, this Costco seafood snack is designed to fit multiple dietary preferences and lifestyles.
Key Takeaways
- The Costco seafood snack packs 6g of protein in each 90-calorie serving.
- Ideal for pescatarian diets and seafood lovers seeking convenient protein.
- Contains crustacean shellfish—check allergen warnings with Food Scan Genius.
- Low-carb, gluten-free, and certified non-GMO for broad dietary compliance.
- Rich in omega-3s and fortified with vitamins for heart and brain health.
Background: Seafood Snacking and Dietary Preferences
Snacking habits have shifted toward protein-rich, nutrient-dense options over the past decade. The rise of pescatarianism—a diet that includes seafood and plant-based foods but excludes other meats—has created demand for seafood-centric snacks. Costco’s new seafood snack meets this trend head-on.
This product targets:
- Pescatarians seeking easy protein boosts.
- Fitness enthusiasts looking for low-calorie, high-protein bites.
- Gluten-free and low-carb dieters craving savory crunch.
- Consumers interested in sustainable seafood sourcing.
Costco leveraged its bulk-buying power to offer this snack at an accessible price point, encouraging trial among members who may be exploring new dietary patterns.
Medical and Scientific Explanation
Seafood is a prime source of high-quality protein and beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports that omega-3s support cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and anti-inflammatory pathways.
Key nutritional highlights per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 90 | 5% |
| Protein | 6 g | 12% |
| Total Fat | 5 g | 8% |
| Sodium | 310 mg | 13% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
People with shellfish allergies should proceed with caution. According to the CDC, shellfish allergens can trigger severe reactions. Tools like Food Scan Genius allow you to scan barcodes and ingredients to verify safety for those with allergies or intolerances.
Impact on Individuals with Dietary Preferences
1. Pescatarian Diet: Enhances meal variety and simplifies portable protein intake.
2. Seafood Allergies: Contains crustacean-derived ingredients. Mandatory allergen labeling and Food Scan Genius alerts reduce risks.
3. Gluten-Free Lifestyle: Certified gluten-free, so wheat-allergic and celiac consumers can enjoy without added risk.
4. Keto and Low-Carb Plans: At 90 calories and 3 g net carbs per serving, it aligns with many ketogenic macros.
5. Sustainable Sourcing: Costco reports its suppliers adhere to responsible fishing standards, a boon for eco-conscious shoppers.
Practical Advice for Managing Seafood Snacking
- Use Food Scan Genius: Scan the product barcode to instantly check allergy alerts and nutrient breakdown.
- Portion Control: Pre-portion servings into snack bags to prevent overeating.
- Pair Smartly: Combine the snack with fresh veggies or a small salad for balanced mini-meals.
- Monitor Sodium: If you’re sodium-sensitive, limit to one serving or rinse lightly in water.
- Rotate Snacks: Incorporate the Costco seafood snack into a rotation with nuts, seeds, and plant-based bars.
Related Dietary Preference Research and Developments
Recent studies emphasize sustainable seafood’s role in climate-smart diets. The Mayo Clinic highlights the benefits of fish-based proteins for metabolic health.
- Alternative Proteins: Seafood snacks compete with insect and algae-based bars in trials assessing nutrient density.
- Flavor Innovation: Global seasoning blends are trending, from Korean chili to Mediterranean herbs.
- Packaging Advances: Recyclable, resealable pouches minimize waste and preserve crunch.
- Fortification: Snacks enriched with vitamins D and B12 cater to vegan and vegetarian micro-nutrient gaps.
These advances signal a wider shift toward functional snacking: nutrient-dense products designed with specific dietary goals in mind.
Resources and Support
- CDC Food Safety – guidelines on handling seafood safely.
- FARE – food allergy research and alerts.
- NIH – research on omega-3 fatty acids and health.
- Mayo Clinic – information on shellfish allergies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Costco seafood snack gluten-free?
Can I use Food Scan Genius to check for allergens?
How many calories are in a serving?
Is this snack sustainable?
What diets is this snack suitable for?
Conclusion
Costco’s new seafood snack offers a crunchy, protein-packed option for diverse dietary needs. Leverage Food Scan Genius to ensure safety, practice portion control, and rotate this snack with other nutrient-rich options. Stock up on this must-try Costco seafood snack and elevate your on-the-go nutrition.
