Farm Facts: Catfish

Catfish is mild in flavor and versatile in the kitchen. Catfish can be farm-raised or harvested from the wild, and it’s so popular that August has been named Catfish Month in its honor. Find out more about this aquatic delight:

• Catfish are named for their cat-like whiskers that protrude from their snouts.
• 89,400 acres of ponds were used for farm-raised catfish production in the United States.
• Farm-raised catfish tend to be more consistent because of their scientifically formulated diets and constant care.
• It’s no wonder that catfish is considered Southern comfort food. 94 percent of all farm-raised catfish in the United States is raised in Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas and Texas.
• A full grown catfish is between 1 to 2 pounds.
• Catfish are a delicious source of lean protein that is low in saturated fat and packed with omega-3 fatty acids.
• Consumption of fish has been known to reduce your risk of heart problems.
• Many people enjoy catfish fried, in fajitas, blackened, grilled, broiled, baked, stuffed or as the new fish sticks. The possibilities are endless.

source: uscatfish.com, agmrc.org