Always wondered what the real difference is between wild-caught and farmed fish? You’re not alone. With all the labels, claims and conflicting info out there, it can be hard to know what to choose. But when it comes to seafood that’s better for your body and the planet, wild-caught is where it’s at - and we’re about to tell you why.
🐠 So... what is the difference?
Wild-caught fish are exactly that - caught in their natural habitats like oceans, rivers and lakes, living on a natural diet and swimming free.
Farmed fish, on the other hand, are raised in pens (often crowded ones), typically fed a grain-based pellet diet, and may be treated with antibiotics or dyes to alter their appearance.
Did you know that all Australian salmon is farmed?
These farmed salmon are usually fed a processed diet and dyed to appear pink (wild salmon get that rich colour naturally from their food!). They also tend to have lower omega-3s, higher inflammatory omega-6s, and a bigger environmental footprint.
Why Is Wild-Caught Healthier?🎣
More Omega-3s Please
Wild-caught seafood (think salmon, mackerel, sardines, snapper and beyond) is naturally higher in omega-3 fatty acids - the anti-inflammatory superstars that support heart health, brain function, and even your mood.
Wild fish eat a natural diet of marine life like algae, plankton, and smaller fish, and it shows. Their fat profile is cleaner, more balanced, and more nourishing.
On the flip side, farmed fish are often higher in omega-6 fatty acids, which can be pro-inflammatory when eaten in excess. And let’s be honest, most of us already get plenty of omega-6s from vegetable oils and processed foods. Choosing wild helps bring your body back into balance, reducing inflammation and supporting long-term health. 🧠❤️
Higher in Protein
Because wild fish swim freely and feed naturally, they tend to be leaner and more muscular than their farmed counterparts. That means more protein per bite.
Lower in Chemicals
One of the most appealing things about wild-caught seafood? It's free from synthetic additives.
Farmed fish are often fed a processed diet and may be treated with antibiotics, dyes (to make them look pink or fresh), and other chemicals. Wild fish, on the other hand, get their colour and nutrients from their natural environment — no artificial tricks required.
They also tend to have lower levels of environmental contaminants like PCBs, dioxins and mercury (though this can vary by species - small fish like sardines and anchovies are usually very low in mercury).
What on Earth are PCBs?
Polychlorinated biphenyls are man-made toxic chemicals that are linked to a range of health problems, including developmental issues, immune system problems, and some types of cancer.
It’s More Sustainable (When Sourced Responsibly)
Not all fishing is created equal, but many wild fisheries are now carefully managed to ensure fish populations stay healthy and ocean ecosystems remain intact. Look for certifications like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) or ask your supplier about sourcing.
Farmed seafood, especially when done intensively, can cause issues like water pollution, disease spread, and habitat destruction. So while there are more sustainable farms popping up, wild-caught (from a well-managed fishery) is often the more planet-friendly choice.
Tastes Better Too
Wild-caught fish has a firmer texture and a more complex, “clean ocean” flavour.
If you’ve ever had wild barramundi or wild-caught prawns, you’ll know what we mean. It’s the kind of seafood that barely needs seasoning. Once you’ve had pan-seared fish with a little lemon and dill… there’s no going back.
It’s Seasonal
Wild seafood isn’t available in abundance year-round, and we’re all about that. Eating with the seasons means connecting with natural rhythms, appreciating food at its peak, and avoiding the mass-produced mindset that leads to overfishing and waste.
Why Go Wild?
Choosing wild-caught fish is a way to reconnect with nature, support sustainable practices, and nourish your body with good food. So next time you're shopping for seafood, go wild! 😉
