School of Fish - Scallops

Can you tell the difference between domestic and Hokkaidos scallops?

With a plethora of ingredients being purchased daily by restaurant owners, operators and chefs, knowing the most information possible about your products is an advantage that is sometimes left untapped. Local seafood distributor, J.J. McDonnell has developed a series of informative, no-cost classes for area chefs that give an in depth look into the seafood that they are using and the story behind each product.

RAM attended the School of Fish in March, which was co-hosted by Maine's Bristol Seafood. This particular session educated attending chefs on the differences between domestic scallops and Japanese Hokkaidos scallops.

Currently, most scallops globally are being imported from China and the price of scallops is steadily rising. Domestic scallops and Japanese scallops supplement the remainder of the market. Domestic scallops are 99% Dragger-Caught with sustainable practices, leaving only 1% of scallops truly being Diver Caught.

Nearly 80% of all Japanese scallops are Hokkaidos scallops, produced in Hokkaido Northern sea waters. The cold water and drift ice allow these scallops to develop a sweet flavor and firm texture. Currently, the cost of Japanese Hokkaidos scallops are less than that of domestic scallops.

Moisture retention also plays a role in costing of these products. When chefs are purchasing scallops, they should be aware of how much moisture retention agent may have been added to the scallop. Processed scallops can hold up to 50-70% water. Each additional 1% of moisture can deduct up to one dollar in the cost of the scallop.

Giving chefs a comprehensive overview of how to select the right product for their menus is truly an advantage. Knowing what questions to ask when purchasing and what to search for or avoid can benefit a restaurant’s overall food cost.

J.J. McDonnell will continue to host it’s School of Fish monthly at their company headquarters in Elkridge.

​To learn more or to attend a session, visit jjmcdonnell.com/school or contact Steve Vilnit, Director of Marketing & Business Development at J.J. McDonnell, at (410) 799-4000 or svilnit@jjmcdonnell.com.