Caviar labels can describe the fish species, a seller’s selection, the processing method or a different kind of fish roe. This guide explains how to read those names without treating them as a universal ranking of quality.
For a side-by-side comparison of Ossetra, Kaluga, Sevruga and other sturgeon varieties, use our guide to types of sturgeon caviar. For the definition and production process, read what caviar is and how it is made.
How to Read Caviar Labels
Species and origin
Check the fish species separately from the place of production. Ossetra, Sevruga and Kaluga identify different sturgeon species or crosses. A species name does not necessarily tell you where a fish was farmed.
Royal, Reserve and other grade names
Royal, Reserve and Imperial are seller-specific descriptions. Ask what the seller means by each selection. Pearl condition, texture, consistency and flavor may influence grading, but there is no single retail grading vocabulary shared by every producer.
Malossol and processing terms
Malossol describes a lightly salted style, not a fish species or a universal quality grade. Pasteurized caviar has received heat treatment; pressed caviar is another preparation. Check the ingredient list and the producer’s storage instructions for the actual product.
Other Fish Roe Names You May Encounter
Bowfin, paddlefish, capelin, salmon and trout produce other kinds of fish roe. These can be enjoyable alternatives with different flavors, textures and prices. Hackleback is a sturgeon caviar and is included below to clarify that distinction.
The top-tier caviars discussed earlier can be hard to find and cost-prohibitive for many of us, which is why caviar alternatives are such a great option for entry-level customers.
Here are a few of the most sought-after fish roes that feature tastes and textures reminiscent of fine caviar without forcing you to dig into the savings account.
Bowfin
Wild-caught in the rivers of the Southern United States, bowfin is a bony fish that produces tiny black pearls, acting as an excellent substitute to pricer caviar products. You’ll likely see bowfin caviar used as garnishes on restaurant menus throughout the world.
Treat this product just as you would any other caviar, and do not mix it with hot dishes. It is best used to entertain larger crowds on bite-sized appetizers like blinis and buttered toast points.
Hackleback
Technically considered caviar, this wild-caught fish yields delicate, crunchy pearls that will satisfy the curious palettes out there for a very reasonable price. The eggs are rich, charcoal-black in color, and offer a distinctively sweet and smooth flavor.
Read those labels closely to make sure you’re buying authentic hackleback from shovelnose sturgeon.
Paddlefish
If you seek an earthy, herbal flavor from your fish roe and crave that explosive texture, paddlefish is your best bet for the price. Steely grey beads are firm and can be bought in bulk to make everyone at the party feel like a star.
Since it resembles sevruga caviar, you may find this product incorrectly labeled, so do your research and don’t pay more than you should. Read up on a few different varieties of paddlefish caviar before you make a purchase online.
Capelin
Although it’s not the most prestigious type of roe on the market, it’s hard to think of a better starting point than capelin roe. The fish is common across the northern hemisphere, meaning you can buy a lot for a fair price and share it without worry.
You’ve probably enjoyed these tiny, crunchy beads on sushi before, so why not bring it home and experiment with some different dishes?
Salmon and Trout Roe
For some folks, big and juicy bursts of flavor are the most important factor when enjoying fish roe, and both salmon and trout deliver on this front without breaking the bank.
Bold orange colors and bright flavors are to be expected from these products, and you can spend a bit more to experience roes with even more variation and nuance.
The Everyday Miracle
With so many hybrids and unique variants available, your caviar journey is never-ending, and that’s a good thing!
Now that you have all the basic information you need to know, you can confidently buy and sample new caviars and roes from across the world.
Last updated 8/18/22
