What pigment is responsible for the famous vibrant, deep red hue found in Sockeye salmon flesh?
Answer
Astaxanthin
The striking, vibrant, deep red color that characterizes Sockeye salmon flesh is directly attributed to the presence of astaxanthin. Astaxanthin is a natural pigment that Sockeye ingests through its diet, which is rich in crustaceans containing high levels of this compound. This high pigment concentration is what gives Sockeye its distinctive visual appeal when served and is intrinsically linked to its flavor profile and fat composition compared to leaner varieties like Keta salmon.
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