Frozen Illex Squid

• Superior Freezing at Sea Protocol: Virtually all commercial Illex is frozen whole on the fishing vessel immediately after capture using blast freezers or plate freezers that achieve temperatures of -20°C or lower within hours . This "snap-frozen" approach is non-negotiable for Illex-it locks in freshness, halts enzymatic activity, and prevents the ammonia development that can occur if the squid is held too long in ambient temperatures. The result is a product that retains its delicate sweetness and firm texture through months of frozen storage.
• Thicker Mantle, Meaty Texture: Illex argentinus is known for its robust mantle walls, which are noticeably thicker and meatier than those of many tropical squid species. This structural characteristic makes Illex particularly well-suited for applications where a substantial bite is desired-from calamari rings to stuffed tubes. The flesh cooks to an opaque white with a tender-yet-firm consistency that holds up well to high-heat preparations.
• Clean, Sweet Flavor Profile: When properly handled, Illex offers a mild, subtly sweet taste with none of the ammonia notes associated with mishandled squid . The flavor is clean and approachable, making it an excellent canvas for a wide range of culinary treatments. The meat has an opaque white color when cooked, with the various parts of the body indicating freshness at the raw stage .
• High Protein, Low Fat Nutritional Density: Illex provides exceptional nutritional value with approximately 16–20 grams of protein per 100-gram serving while maintaining very low fat content-typically 1–2% total fat . This positions it as an ideal protein source for health-conscious consumers, fitness-oriented menus, and dietary programs focused on lean nutrition.
• Efficient Processing Yields: For industrial buyers, Illex offers favorable processing economics. From whole round raw material, processors can expect approximately 50–60% yield into finished products-cleaned tubes, tentacles, and wings . The remaining material (heads, viscera, pens) can be directed to fishmeal production, maximizing value recovery from each ton processed.
• Established Global Supply Chain: Illex benefits from a mature, well-organized value chain centered on processing hubs in China, particularly in Zhoushan, Shandong, and Fujian provinces . These facilities have decades of cephalopod processing experience, advanced cleaning lines, and the capacity to produce consistent, high-quality finished goods that meet the specifications of demanding markets in the EU, North America, and Asia.
• Versatile Product Range: No other squid species offers the same breadth of product forms as Illex. From whole round blocks for large-scale processors to retail-ready IQF rings and tubes, from foodservice T+T (tubes and tentacles) blocks to specialty cuts like squid flowers for presentation dishes, Illex adapts to virtually any market requirement .

Illex squid offers a nutrient-dense profile that appeals to modern dietary preferences-high in lean protein, low in fat, and rich in essential micronutrients. The values below represent composites from multiple sources and may vary slightly by season and processing method.

Serving Size: 100g (raw, cleaned)

The combination of high-quality protein, essential minerals, and beneficial omega-3s makes Illex squid a smart choice for health-conscious consumers. Its low saturated fat content supports cardiovascular wellness when prepared using healthy cooking methods. For perspective, a 100-gram serving provides approximately 40% of the daily protein requirement for an average adult, with minimal fat contribution.

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