California Market Squid

Doryteuthis (Loligo) opalescens

Also Known As

Squid, Pacific loligo squid, Opalescent inshore squid

U.S. wild-caught California market squid is a smart seafood choice because it is sustainably managed and responsibly harvested under U.S. regulations.
Market squid swim backwards by pumping water through valves near their heads.
Market squid laying eggs.
Market squid are members of the mollusk family known as cephalopods, which means foot-on-head. They have eight arms and two tentacles that extend from the ends of their bodies where their mouths are located.
A dish of fried squid.

Facts

Availability

Year-round.

Source

U.S. wild-caught from California.

Taste

Mild, and subtly sweet.

Texture

Cooked squid is firm. 

Color

Raw squid should be moist, shiny, and ivory colored. Pink, yellow, or purple flesh indicates deterioration. Cooked squid is opaque white.

Health Benefits

Squid are an excellent source of selenium, riboflavin, and vitamin B12.

Health & Nutrition

Nutrition facts
Serving weight 100 g (raw)
Amount per serving
Calories 92
Protein 15.58 g
Fat, total 1.38 g
Saturated fatty acids, total 0.358 g
Carbohydrate 3.08 g
Sugars, total 0 g
Fiber, total dietary 0 g
Cholesterol 233 mg
Selenium 44.8 mcg
Sodium 44 mg

Seafood Guide