Ossetra Caviar

Species:
Acipenser gueldenstaedtii (Ossetra sturgeon)

 

Originates from Area:
Caspian Sea region (Russia, Iran), also widely aquacultured in Europe, Israel, and China

Key Characteristics:

Colour:

Golden to dark brown; often marbled with amber or olive hues

Texture:

Firm and crisp, with a pop in the mouth

Egg Size:

Medium (~2.8–3.3 mm); slightly larger than Baerii, smaller than Beluga

Source:

From aquaculture and historically wild-caught A. gueldenstaedtii

Flavour Profile:

Nutty, briny, complex with a long finish; more pronounced than Baerii

Price Range:

~$3,000–$7,000 per kg (premium grade Ossetra is among the most sought-after)

Grades Available:

Grade 1: Uniform size, strong shell, golden hue preferred

Grade 2: Slightly less firm or variable color

Premium labels: "Imperial", "Royal", "Golden Ossetra"

Best Pairing (Drinks):

Vintage Champagne, Chablis, dry sake

Best Pairing (Foods):

Buttery brioche, crème fraîche, roasted fingerling potatoes, soft-boiled quail eggs

Nutritional Breakdown (Per 100g Ossetra Caviar):
  • Calories: ~250–265 kcal
  • Protein: ~25–28 g
  • Fat: ~17–19 g
    • Omega-3 (EPA + DHA): ~3–5 g
    • Saturated fat: ~4 g
  • Cholesterol: ~430–450 mg
  • Carbohydrates: ~1–2 g
  • Sodium: ~1500–1800 mg
  • Micronutrients:
    • Vitamin B12: >200% RDA per 100g
    • Choline: Present in high amounts
    • Zinc, Selenium, Iron, Magnesium: Abundant

Vitamin D & A: Present in moderate levels

Cognitive-Performance Relevance (Sport & Mental Endurance):

✅ Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA & DHA)
• Key in reducing neuroinflammation and optimizing neuron signaling
• Improve decision-making, accuracy, and memory — relevant to tactical and endurance sports

✅ Vitamin B12 + Choline
• Vital for neurotransmitter production, especially acetylcholine (focus, motor control)
• B12 supports energy production and nervous system integrity

✅ High-Quality Protein
• Delivers essential amino acids for neurotransmitter precursors
• Supports post-training recovery with minimal carb impact

✅ Micronutrients (Zinc, Selenium, Iron)
• Help regulate brain oxidative status and maintain immune resilience
• Contribute to thyroid health — indirectly affecting mood, energy, and cognition

⚠️ Notes for Athletes:
  • Sodium: Valuable for hydration and electrolyte balance post-exercise
  • Cholesterol: High — typically not a concern in metabolically active individuals
  • Ossetra provides a balance between flavor complexity and functional nutrient density
    — well-suited for high-performance meals or recovery-enhancing snacks in elite sport contexts