Fish and shellfish have always been practical diet staples because of their health benefits. Canned options fit well with the "recessionista" trend of spending less and getting more bang for your buck. Canned fish offer health benefits such as lowering cholesterol and reducing total blood fats. But be careful when cruising the store shelves for tuna and other omega-3-packed cans of fish. Opt for those packed in water - fish packed in oil may be moister, but they're also laden with more fat. Don't overlook those Depression-era favorites, either. Sardines are high in calcium and all the other healthful stuff contained in its more popular counterparts. If you're eating out or splurging on a gourmet seafood dinner at home, then why not give mail-order seafood a try? Companies on either coast can catch your selection, package it and FedEx it in dry ice for the ultimate in freshness and health. Another seafood trend is discovering new fish.
Sustainability and overfishing have proved problematic for the fishing industry in years past, so give species like tuna and haddock a break. Aquaculture is the term that describes eco-friendly fish farming, which takes into account ways to replenish frequently fished species. Bluefish and the Chesapeake Ray, for example, are two species that are growing in popularity and offer health benefits and versatility. Seafood is also included in the comfort-food trend of casseroles and warm, comforting options. You won't find mom's tuna casserole on restaurant menus, but offerings that include nuts, blue cheese and other delectable foods may be on the menu. It's true what your mom told you - there ARE other fish in the sea!