Hackleback

Species:
Scaphirhynchus platorynchus (Hackleback Sturgeon, also known as Shovelnose Sturgeon)

Originates from Area:
Native to the Mississippi and Missouri River systems in the United States
Sustainably wild-caught or aquaculture-raised in American waters

Key Characteristics:

Colour:

Jet black to dark brown, occasionally with olive highlights

Texture:

Firm, crisp eggs; slightly drier and more resilient than other sturgeon roes

Egg Size:

Small (~1.5–2 mm), similar to Sterlet but denser and glossier

Source:

Primarily wild-caught, but increasingly farm-raised for sustainability

Flavour Profile:

Mildly nutty, earthy, clean with a light briny finish — often described as “robust but elegant”

Price Range:

~$500–$1,200 per kg — among the most affordable sturgeon caviars

Grades Available:

Usually not graded like Beluga or Ossetra; most Hackleback is marketed as “wild American sturgeon caviar” in standard or premium labels

Best Pairing (Drinks):

Dry American sparkling wine, vodka, or citrusy white wines (e.g., Albariño, Pinot Grigio)

Best Pairing (Foods):

Deviled eggs, crème fraîche canapés, seared scallops, potato rösti, or cold corn velouté

Nutritional Breakdown (Per 100g Hackleback Caviar):
  • Calories: ~240–250 kcal
  • Protein: ~23–25 g
  • Fat: ~14–16 g
  • Omega-3 (EPA + DHA): ~2.5–3.5 g
  • Saturated fat: ~3 g
  • Cholesterol: ~400–420 mg
  • Carbohydrates: ~1–2 g
  • Sodium: ~1600–1900 mg

Micronutrients:

  • Vitamin B12: High (~150–200% RDA)
  • Choline: Present in moderate levels
  • Selenium, Zinc, Iron: Good source
  • Vitamin A & D: Present, especially in wild-sourced caviar

Cognitive-Performance Relevance (for Sport & Mental Endurance):

✅ Omega-3s (EPA & DHA)

  • Promote synaptic flexibility and anti-inflammatory effects
  • Useful for focus and decision-making during competition

✅ B12 and Choline

  • Enhance neurotransmitter efficiency (acetylcholine, dopamine pathways)
  • B12 helps protect neurons, aiding in reaction time and coordination

✅ Lean Protein

  • Complete amino acid profile for neurotransmitter support and recovery
  • Good for low-carb or time-restricted eating strategies

✅ Selenium + Zinc

Vital for thyroid, brain metabolism, and immune function in stressed athletes

⚠️ Notes for Athletes & Chefs:
  • Affordable, versatile: Ideal for daily or mid-tier service menus
  • Resistant to breakdown: Can tolerate gentle temperature exposure better than delicate caviars — suitable for canapés and plated warm dishes
  • Still best used as a finishing garnish, not cooked directly