Burger King’s Big Fish Sandwich Features Mild, Versatile Wild-Caught Alaskan Pollock

Burger King’s Big Fish sandwich stars wild-caught Alaskan Pollock, chosen for its mild flavor and flaky texture, making it a satisfying alternative to red meat. This popular fish is also featured in the limited-time Fiery Big Fish, catering to those who crave a spicier option.

Mild and Flaky Alaskan Pollock Makes Burger King’s Big Fish a Hit for All Ages

When selecting the fish for its Big Fish sandwich, Burger King turns to wild-caught Alaskan Pollock, which stands out for quality and flavor. Featured prominently in both the original Big Fish sandwich and its spicier counterpart, the Fiery Big Fish, Burger King’s choice of Alaskan Pollock reflects the brand’s commitment to delivering a mild, versatile fish that appeals to a broad audience.

According to Chowhound, Alaskan Pollock is popular due to its sweet, mild flavor and tender, flaky texture. It appeals even to those who typically shy away from fish. Children, in particular, often find traditional fish flavors overwhelming, yet the mildness of Alaskan Pollock subtly introduces fish back onto their plates without the strong taste they usually reject.

Burger King’s Fiery Big Fish Offers Bold Flavor and a Meat-Free Option for Lent

While the standard Big Fish sandwich’s gentle flavor profile resonates with younger or more selective palates, the Fiery Big Fish targets adults who enjoy a spicier meal. The added kick in each bite of this version caters to those who seek bolder flavors in their fast-food choices.

Burger King’s seasonal promotion of the Fiery Big Fish, launched in early February 2024, aligns with the Lenten period, offering a meat-free option to those abstaining from red meat. This limited-time offering, available until the end of Lent on March 28, 2024, underscores the influence of tradition on fast-food menus, as several chains, including McDonald’s, offer fish sandwiches during Lent. McDonald’s, for example, sells roughly 300 million fish sandwiches annually, with 25% of those sales occurring during the Lenten season. While Burger King’s numbers may not reach the same heights, it likely experienced a comparable boost in fish sandwich sales during this period.

Alaskan Pollock: A Sustainable, Nutritious Choice Behind Burger King’s Big Fish Sandwich

Beyond its use in Burger King’s sandwiches, Alaskan Pollock is a versatile ingredient. Its mild taste and firm texture make it a staple in fish and chips, and food manufacturers frequently use it in imitation seafood products like faux shrimp, scallops, and crab meat. Its abundance also supports sustainable sourcing practices; an estimated 3 million tons of Pollock are harvested annually from the Pacific Ocean, ensuring a stable supply without overfishing concerns faced by species like Albacore tuna or salmon. Additionally, Alaskan Pollock offers essential nutrients, including vitamin B12 and protein.

However, considerations about sustainability and nutritional benefits might fade into the background for those enjoying Burger King's Big Fish sandwich. With its crispy coating, fresh pickles, and soft bun, the Big Fish provides a satisfying alternative to red meat, serving as a tasty, affordable choice when beef isn’t on the menu.