Understanding Shrimp Classification

The next time you are at the grocery store, this information may help you when it comes to understanding what type of shrimp to ask for.

Every shrimp, whether sold in a bag or in the seafood department, should come with a label determining the estimated number of shrimp per pound. This is shown by “U/#” for example “U/20” would mean there are under 20 shrimp per pound. The number will change depending on the size of shrimp and the “U” stands for “unit.”

You may also see shrimp labeled as below:

Jumbo: 16/20 (16 – 20 shrimp per pound) – These are incredible if you can get your hands on them!

• Extra-Large: 21/25 (12 – 25 shrimp per pound) – This is the most readily available size found at most grocery stores.
• Large: 26/30 (26 – 30 shrimp per pound)
• Medium: 41/50 (41 – 50 shrimp per pound)
• Small: 51/60 (51 – 60 shrimp per pound)

Regardless of what you are looking for, having this information equips you to make the best decision for the recipe at hand.

Cheers to starting a new tradition around The Table Together!

Sincerely,

Tiffany Lewis

Founder and true believer in the power of bringing people around The Table Together!