Is Barramundi Healthy? Nutrition Facts & Benefits
5 min read

Barramundi is gaining popularity as a nutrient-rich, sustainable fish that’s both delicious and good for your health. With its high protein content, omega-3 fatty acids, and low mercury levels, it’s a fantastic alternative to more commonly consumed fish like salmon and tilapia.
In this guide, we’ll break down:
✔️ Barramundi’s nutrition profile
✔️ Health benefits of eating barramundi
✔️ How it compares to other fish
✔️ Best ways to cook barramundi for maximum nutrition
Barramundi Nutrition Facts (Per 100g Serving)
If you’re looking for a lean, protein-packed fish, barramundi is an excellent choice. Here’s how it measures up per 100 grams:
Nutrient | Amount | Benefits |
Calories | 108 kcal | Low in calories, ideal for weight loss |
Protein | 23g | Essential for muscle growth & repair |
Fat | 2.5g | Healthy fats, low in saturated fat |
Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 600mg | Supports heart & brain health |
Cholesterol | 50mg | Lower than many other fish |
Carbohydrates | 0g | Keto-friendly & low-carb |
Mercury Levels | Low | Safer than tuna & other large fish |
📌 Did You Know? Barramundi has half the calories of salmon while still providing a significant amount of omega-3s!
Health Benefits of Eating Barramundi
1️⃣ Supports Heart Health ❤️
Barramundi is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help:
✔️ Lower bad cholesterol (LDL)
✔️ Reduce the risk of heart disease
✔️ Improve blood circulation
📌 Compared to other fish: Barramundi has 600mg of omega-3s per 100g, making it a great alternative to salmon if you want a milder-tasting option with fewer calories.
2️⃣ Great for Weight Loss & Muscle Growth 💪
If you're looking for a high-protein, low-fat fish, barramundi is a top choice.
✔️ Low in calories – Only 108 kcal per 100g
✔️ High in protein – 23g per serving, essential for muscle repair
✔️ Low in unhealthy fats – Less saturated fat than beef or pork
📌 Did You Know? Barramundi is a great option for keto & low-carb diets because it has zero carbohydrates.
3️⃣ Safe & Low in Mercury ⚠️
Unlike larger fish like tuna and swordfish, barramundi has low mercury levels, making it a safer choice for frequent consumption.
✔️ Safe for pregnant women & children
✔️ Less exposure to heavy metals
✔️ Sustainably farmed options are even cleaner
📌 Tip: Always opt for sustainably farmed barramundi, as it is free from antibiotics & contaminants.
Barramundi vs. Other Fish: Which is Healthier?
How does barramundi compare to salmon, tilapia, and cod?
Fish Type | Calories (per 100g) | Protein | Omega-3s | Mercury Level |
Barramundi | 108 kcal | 23g | 600mg | Low |
Salmon | 208 kcal | 20g | 1,200mg | Moderate |
Tilapia | 129 kcal | 26g | 240mg | Low |
Cod | 82 kcal | 18g | 150mg | Low |
Key Takeaways:
✔️ Lower in calories than salmon but still provides a good amount of omega-3s
✔️ Higher in omega-3s than tilapia & cod
✔️ Safer than tuna due to low mercury levels
📌 Best For: If you want lean protein with heart-healthy omega-3s, barramundi is a perfect alternative to salmon!
How to Cook Barramundi for Maximum Nutrition
To keep barramundi’s nutrients intact, here are the best healthy cooking methods:
1️⃣ Grilled Barramundi with Lemon & Herbs 🍋🔥
✔️ Retains healthy fats & omega-3s
✔️ Great for meal prep & weight loss
🔹 How to Make It:
Season fillets with lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil
Grill for 5 minutes per side on medium heat
Serve with steamed vegetables & quinoa
2️⃣ Baked Barramundi with Garlic & Olive Oil 🧄🥗
✔️ Best for low-fat, high-protein diets
✔️ Keeps the fish moist & flavorful
🔹 How to Make It:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
Drizzle fillets with olive oil, garlic, and rosemary
Bake for 12-15 minutes until fish flakes easily
3️⃣ Air-Fried Barramundi (Crispy & Healthy!) 🍽️
✔️ Less oil than deep-frying
✔️ Perfect for a low-calorie, high-protein meal
🔹 How to Make It:
Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C)
Lightly coat fillets with olive oil & seasonings
Air-fry for 8 minutes until crispy
📌 Want More Recipes? Check out our Top 5 Barramundi Recipes
Why Choose Sustainably Farmed Barramundi?
🌱 Sustainability Matters! Unlike overfished species like cod and tuna, barramundi is farmed using eco-friendly methods that:
✔️ Use less water & energy than traditional fish farming
✔️ Don’t rely on wild fish stocks for feed
✔️ Avoid antibiotics & harmful chemicals
Where to Buy Sustainable Barramundi?
🏪 Retail Stores: Costco, Whole Foods, specialty seafood markets
📦 Online: The Better Fish Barramundi, Australis Barramundi
🎣 Local Markets: Fresh catch from Australian & Southeast Asian fisheries
📌 Want to Try It? Learn Where to Buy Barramundi & How Much It Costs
Final Thoughts: Should You Eat More Barramundi?
✅ YES! Barramundi is a healthy, nutritious, and sustainable choice for seafood lovers.
✔️ Low in calories & high in protein – Great for weight loss & muscle building
✔️ Rich in omega-3s – Supports heart & brain health
✔️ Safer than other fish – Low mercury & sustainably farmed
📌 What’s Next? Try cooking it yourself with our Easy Barramundi Recipes!