What 14 to Buy and 4 to Avoid in Sam’s Club Meat & Seafood Section

Thompson Farms Grass-Fed Filet Mignon (Buy)

Thompson Farms’ grass-fed filet mignon at Sam’s Club is a must-buy for those who value premium quality at a reasonable price. These filets are 100% grass-fed, meaning they’re raised on natural pastures without grains, resulting in healthier and richer meat. Priced at about $19.99 for a four-pack, it’s an excellent deal for premium steak that would usually cost much more elsewhere. The filet mignon is renowned for its tenderness, making it a perfect choice for special meals or celebrations. With a simple seasoning of salt and pepper, you’ll highlight the naturally delicious flavor of this high-quality cut.

Farm-Raised Tilapia (Avoid)

While tilapia is inexpensive, it’s not the healthiest choice due to its farm-raised origins. All tilapia is farmed, meaning the fish are often raised in confined, unnatural conditions, affecting both their quality and flavor. Additionally, farmed tilapia lacks the same beneficial omega-3 fatty acids that you would find in wild-caught fish. For those concerned with health and sustainability, it’s wise to avoid tilapia. Instead, consider other wild-caught fish that offer better nutrition and are farmed in more sustainable environments.

Argentine Wild Caught Extra Large Shrimp (Buy)

Sam’s Club’s Argentine wild-caught extra-large shrimp is a high-quality seafood option worth the purchase. These 16-30 count shrimp have a red color, indicating their wild origin, which also contributes to a firmer texture and sweeter taste. Wild-caught shrimp are more sustainable and less likely to have contaminants compared to farm-raised varieties. These shrimp are versatile in the kitchen, perfect for grilling, sautéing, or using in pasta dishes. They’re a great investment for anyone who values quality and wants to elevate their meal with sustainably sourced seafood.

Farm-Raised Atlantic Salmon from Norway (Avoid)

Farm-raised Atlantic salmon from Norway may look appealing due to its lower price, but it doesn’t offer the same nutritional value as wild-caught salmon. Farmed salmon’s pale color comes from artificial beta-carotene rather than a natural diet, resulting in a mushy texture and less intense flavor. The farming practices also raise environmental concerns and health questions due to possible contamination. Though it’s a cheaper alternative, farm-raised Atlantic salmon lacks the nutrient density found in wild-caught options. Choosing wild-caught salmon not only enhances flavor but also provides a better, more nutrient-rich option.

Lamb Rack (Buy)

Sam’s Club’s lamb rack from Thomas Farms is an excellent buy for those looking for a flavorful and ethically sourced meat option. This lamb is likely 100% grass-fed, providing a robust flavor profile and nutrient-dense meat. Lamb racks are versatile for grilling or roasting, allowing you to bring restaurant-quality dining to your home. Priced around $14 per pound, it competes well with other stores, offering high quality at an affordable price. Marinate it with herbs and spices, and grill or roast it for a tender, juicy meal.

Wild Caught Black Cod (Buy)

Wild-caught black cod, also known as sablefish, is a fantastic choice for seafood lovers at Sam’s Club. Black cod has a rich, buttery taste with a firm texture, making it ideal for dishes like miso-marinated cod or Asian-inspired meals. This fish is packed with omega-3s and offers an elevated dining experience, especially when baked or broiled. Priced at $11.48 per pound, it’s an investment in high-quality seafood that’s both delicious and nutritious. Its mild flavor pairs well with various marinades and spices, making it a versatile choice for creative recipes.

Grass-Fed Organic Ground Beef 85/15 (Buy)

Sam’s Club’s organic grass-fed ground beef in an 85/15 lean-to-fat ratio is a healthier option for anyone looking to avoid conventional, grain-fed beef. Priced at $4.98 per pound, this organic ground beef offers excellent value for its quality. Being 100% grass-fed, it has a rich flavor that enhances dishes like burgers, meatloaf, and tacos. This lean blend provides a balance of flavor and health, making it ideal for those looking to eat cleaner. The grass-fed certification ensures it’s raised naturally, without antibiotics or hormones, contributing to a better taste and nutritional profile.

Cold Water Lobster Tails (Buy)

Cold water lobster tails from Sam’s Club offer a luxurious seafood option with superior quality compared to their warm-water counterparts. These lobsters are sourced from cold waters, which enhances their firm texture and sweet flavor, making them a favorite choice for fine dining. Priced at about $29 per pound, they’re a reasonable way to enjoy gourmet seafood at home without the high restaurant price. These lobster tails are versatile, perfect for grilling, baking, or broiling with a butter sauce. Pair them with a steak for an elevated surf-and-turf experience that will impress any guest.

Wild Caught Sockeye Salmon (Buy)

Sam’s Club’s wild-caught sockeye salmon stands out for its vibrant color and high-quality taste. Unlike farmed salmon, wild-caught sockeye has a naturally rich, orange color due to a diet of krill and other sea organisms, which also contribute to its intense flavor. It’s a perfect option for grilling, baking, or making salmon patties with a homemade tartar sauce. At $10.98 per pound, it’s slightly more expensive than farmed alternatives but offers a superior taste and a wealth of nutrients. Sockeye salmon is a heart-healthy choice, loaded with omega-3s and essential vitamins.

Farm-Raised Shrimp (Avoid)

Farm-raised shrimp is one seafood item to skip at Sam’s Club if you’re focused on quality. Farmed shrimp are often raised in crowded conditions that can impact their texture and taste, making them inferior to wild-caught varieties. They lack the firm texture and sweet flavor that’s characteristic of high-quality shrimp. Additionally, farm-raised shrimp often come from regions with questionable practices, leading to concerns about contamination. For a more satisfying seafood experience, choose wild-caught shrimp instead.

Wild Caught Snapper Fillets (Buy)

The wild-caught snapper fillets available at Sam’s Club are a delicious and versatile seafood option. Snapper has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a firm texture that holds up well in various cooking methods, whether grilled, baked, or broiled. Priced at $10.98 per pound, it’s a reasonably priced option for wild-caught fish that’s both flavorful and nutrient-dense. Snapper is rich in protein and provides a good source of lean energy for health-conscious diners. This is an ideal choice for creating restaurant-style dishes in your home kitchen.

Cooked Shrimp (Avoid)

Although pre-cooked shrimp might seem convenient, it’s best avoided as it tends to become rubbery and overcooked when reheated. This type of shrimp doesn’t retain the fresh taste and texture that you can achieve by cooking raw shrimp. Additionally, pre-cooked shrimp often lacks the firm texture and natural flavor that raw, wild-caught shrimp offers. For a better taste experience, consider buying raw shrimp that allows you to control the cooking process. If convenience is key, choose frozen, wild-caught shrimp instead.

Wild Alaskan Frozen Salmon (Buy)

For those who enjoy high-quality fish, Sam’s Club’s wild Alaskan frozen salmon is an ideal choice to keep on hand. Frozen at peak freshness, this wild-caught salmon retains its firm texture and delicious flavor, making it perfect for a variety of dishes. It’s also loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart and brain health. Wild Alaskan salmon can be grilled, baked, or turned into patties for a tasty and nutritious meal. Having this fish in your freezer allows you to prepare a wholesome seafood meal whenever you like.

Thompson Farms Grass-Fed Strip Steaks (Buy)

Sam’s Club’s Thompson Farms grass-fed strip steaks are a quality choice for anyone looking for a lean yet flavorful cut of beef. These steaks are 100% grass-fed, providing a healthier, more natural beef option. Although they may not have as much marbling as other cuts, strip steaks are perfect for grilling or pan-searing with the right seasoning. At $12.98 per pound, they offer excellent value for premium, ethically sourced meat. Their lean quality makes them ideal for those seeking a protein-rich, nutrient-dense meal without excessive fat.

Wild Caught Cod (Buy)

Wild-caught cod at Sam’s Club is a great choice for fish lovers looking for a mild-flavored and versatile option. Known for its delicate taste and flaky texture, cod is ideal for dishes like fish tacos, fish and chips, or baked cod with a breadcrumb crust. At $7.98 per pound, this wild-caught option is an affordable way to enjoy high-quality seafood. Cod is low in fat and calories but high in protein, making it a health-conscious choice for any meal. It’s a versatile fish that works well with a variety of seasonings and cooking techniques.

Japanese Hokkaido Scallops (Buy)

Sam’s Club offers frozen Japanese Hokkaido scallops, a premium choice for seafood enthusiasts who love their delicate, sweet flavor. Known for their smooth texture and natural sweetness, Hokkaido scallops are perfect for searing, bringing out a caramelized crust that enhances their taste. They’re currently on sale for $24 for a pound and a half, making them an affordable luxury item. These scallops are great for special occasions and can be used in various gourmet recipes. The sweet, tender flavor profile makes them a favorite for chefs and home cooks alike.

Lamb Loin Chops (Buy)

Sam’s Club’s lamb loin chops offer an excellent introduction to lamb for anyone looking to try something new. Priced at just $6 per pound, these chops are tender, flavorful, and easy to cook, whether grilled, pan-seared, or braised. Each chop has a small filet on one side and a strip on the other, adding texture and variety to the cut. Lamb is also nutrient-dense, providing high levels of iron and essential vitamins. These chops offer a great balance between quality and affordability, making them a worthwhile addition to your shopping list.

Whole Organic Chicken (Buy)

Whole organic chickens at Sam’s Club are an economical and versatile choice for those looking to make the most of their grocery budget. These chickens are free from GMOs and raised without harmful chemicals, providing a cleaner, healthier option. By purchasing a whole chicken, you can butcher it into various cuts or roast it whole, maximizing its use in meals throughout the week. Using the bones to make homemade broth also extends the value and health benefits of this purchase. It’s an ideal choice for families or meal preppers looking to stretch their dollar.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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