What is lumpfish roe?

October 13, 2026

If you have seen a small jar of black or red "caviar" on a supermarket shelf, it was most likely lumpfish roe. It is an affordable roe that is worth knowing about, but it is not the same as sturgeon caviar.

What it is

Lumpfish roe comes from the lumpfish (also called the lumpsucker), a fish that lives in cold northern waters. The roe is small, firm and naturally pale. It is usually dyed black or red, which is why it looks dramatic in a jar.

What it tastes like

Lumpfish roe is salty, with a firm, slightly crisp texture and a simple flavor. It does not have the richness or the buttery finish of sturgeon caviar. Its job is to add salt, color and texture.

How it is sold

It is typically pasteurized and sold in glass jars that keep on the shelf until opened. Once opened, it needs to be refrigerated. In the United States, the label should name the fish, such as "lumpfish caviar", since "caviar" on its own means sturgeon roe.

How it is used

As a garnish on canapés, deviled eggs and smoked salmon
On blini or crackers with sour cream or cream cheese
In sauces and dips, for color and salt
On seafood dishes and cold platters

Lumpfish roe vs sturgeon caviar

Pearls: lumpfish roe is very small and uniform. Sturgeon pearls are larger and more varied.
Texture: lumpfish roe is firm. Sturgeon caviar has a delicate pop and a creamy finish.
Flavor: lumpfish roe is salty and simple. Sturgeon caviar is rich, buttery and nutty. Opus Kaluga Hybrid has a buttery, almond-leaning flavor.
Color: lumpfish roe is dyed. Sturgeon caviar keeps its natural color.
Storage: lumpfish roe in a jar keeps on the shelf until opened. Fresh sturgeon caviar must be kept at 28 to 32°F.
Price: lumpfish roe costs a small fraction of sturgeon caviar.

Which to choose

Lumpfish roe is a fine garnish at a low cost. If you want to taste caviar itself, choose sturgeon. See a beginner's guide to caviar and what caviar tastes like.

Allergies

It is fish roe, so it isn't suitable for people with a fish allergy. The dye and other ingredients vary, so read the label. See caviar and allergies.

Opus Caviar sells fresh Kaluga Hybrid sturgeon caviar, not lumpfish roe, and it is opening soon with same-day courier delivery across the South Bay. Join the list to be first to order.