How much Niacin (Vitamin B3) is in farmed Atlantic salmon?

Vitamin B3 (Niacin) Content in Farmed Atlantic Salmon

Farmed Atlantic salmon contains approximately 2.1 grams of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) per 3.5-oz (100g) serving, but does not contain significant amounts of vitamin B3 (niacin). 1

Nutritional Profile of Farmed Atlantic Salmon

Omega-3 Fatty Acid Content

• According to the American Heart Association, farmed Atlantic salmon is one of the richest sources of omega-3 PUFAs among commonly consumed fish 1
• The specific omega-3 content in farmed Atlantic salmon is 2.1g per 3.5-oz serving, which is:
  • Equal to anchovy and kippered Atlantic herring (2.1g)
  • Higher than wild Atlantic salmon (1.8g)
  • Significantly higher than many other popular seafood options 1

Vitamin B3 (Niacin) Content

• While farmed Atlantic salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, it is not a significant source of vitamin B3 (niacin)
• The American Heart Association guidelines do not list salmon as a notable source of niacin 1

Health Benefits of Farmed Atlantic Salmon

Despite not being a significant source of niacin, farmed Atlantic salmon offers important health benefits:

• The high omega-3 content in farmed salmon supports cardiovascular health by:
  • Reducing risk of cardiac death, coronary heart disease, and ischemic stroke 1
  • Decreasing triglyceride levels 1
  • Improving endothelial function 1

Considerations When Consuming Farmed Salmon

• For some species like salmon, LC n-3 PUFA levels are actually higher in farm-raised fish compared to wild-caught varieties 1
• Recent research indicates that the omega-3 content in farmed salmon has decreased over time as feed formulations have changed from marine-based to more plant-based ingredients 2
• Despite these changes, farmed salmon still delivers more EPA+DHA than most other fish species and all terrestrial livestock 2

Recommended Consumption

• The American Heart Association recommends consuming fish (particularly fatty fish like salmon) 1-2 times per week 1
• One serving (3.5-4 oz) of fatty fish like salmon per week provides approximately 250 mg/day of LC n-3 PUFAs, which is the recommended daily intake 1
• For individuals with high triglycerides, the AHA recommends 2-4g of EPA+DHA per day, which could be achieved through more frequent salmon consumption 1

While farmed Atlantic salmon is not a significant source of vitamin B3 (niacin), it remains one of the most valuable dietary sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which provide substantial cardiovascular health benefits.