Ever found yourself staring at a seafood counter, or perhaps a menu, and seen those cryptic numbers like '16/20' next to the shrimp? It's a common sight, and honestly, it can feel a bit like deciphering a secret code. But don't worry, it's not as complicated as it sounds. In fact, it's a pretty straightforward way for folks in the industry, and now for us consumers, to understand exactly what we're getting.
So, what does '16/20' actually mean when it comes to shrimp? It's all about size, specifically, the count of shrimp per pound. When you see '16/20', it means that there are approximately 16 to 20 shrimp in every pound. This is a pretty standard size, often referred to as 'large' shrimp. They're a good all-rounder, substantial enough for grilling or scampi, but not so massive that they overwhelm a dish.
Think of it as a way to standardize. Without these counts, one person's 'large' shrimp might be another's 'medium'. This numbering system helps ensure consistency, whether you're buying from a local fishmonger or ordering online. The smaller the number in the count, the larger the individual shrimp. So, 'U/15' would mean 'under 15' shrimp per pound – those are your jumbo, colossal beauties. On the flip side, a count like '71/90' would indicate much smaller shrimp, often used for things like shrimp salads or fried shrimp where you want a lot of little pieces.
It's interesting how language evolves to meet practical needs. While 'shrimp' itself, as a word, can refer to the small, edible sea creature with a curved body and shell, or even informally to a small or puny person (though that usage feels a bit dated now), the '16/20' is purely functional. It’s a practical descriptor born out of the need for clear communication in the seafood trade. It’s not about the quality of the shrimp, or its origin, but simply its physical size based on how many fit into a pound.
Understanding these numbers can really empower your shopping. If you're planning a dish that calls for plump, meaty shrimp, you'll know to look for counts in the lower range, like 16/20 or even smaller. If you need smaller shrimp for a salad or a casserole, you'd aim for higher counts. It’s a simple piece of knowledge that makes a big difference in getting exactly what you want from the seafood counter. So next time you see those numbers, you can confidently navigate the world of shrimp sizes!
