The Healthful Benefits of Mussels

Mussels have been cultivated for almost 800 years and have been used as a food source for more than 20,000 years. It is truly a time tested food. Mussels are one of the most natural, organic products available in today's market.

Mussels offer several health benefits. They are high in B12 vitamins and provide a readily absorbed source of many other B & C vitamins, amino acids, vital minerals including iron, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium and zinc. They have more Omega 3 fatty acids than any other shellfish and far more than any other popular meat choice today. Mussels are much lower in Omega 6 fatty acids than any other popular meat choice.

As an extra-lean meat, mussels are also low in sodium, fat and cholesterol and high in protein. Fifteen (15) mussels provide the equivalent protein of a 6-oz. steak. The chart below compares some popular protein choices.

	Blue Mussel	T-Bone Steak	Chicken	Turkey
Calories	292	300	402	312
Protein	40.4g	48g	48g	48g
Fat	8g	12g	24g	12g
Carbohydrates	12g	0	0	0
Cholesterol	96mg	102mg	150mg	144mg
Calcium	56.2mg	33.6mg	40.2mg	54mg
Magnesium	63mg	40.2mg	37.2mg	40.2mg
Phosphorous	484mg	373.2mg	277.2mg	342.6mg
Potassium	456 mg	606mg	398.4mg	487.2mg
Iron	11.4mg	3mg	.24mg	4.2mg
Omega 3 Fatty Acids	1472mg	37.2mg	420mg	285.6mg
Omega 6 Fatty Acids	61.2mg	290mg	4248mg	2940mg

*This is chart is based on information provided by:
NutritionData; Know What you Eat:
1 lb. of mussels, in the shell, yields 3.5 -6.0 oz. of cooked mussel meat.