Q: How is Ikura graded?
A: Our Ikura is graded by extremely well trained Egg technicians. Our lead Egg technician has been in the industry for over 40 years and has been working at Franco for 25 years. Every fish skein is sorted out upon arrival based on a variety of factors ranging from species, size, and color. They are then graded into grade HS, 1, 2 , or 3 products to go through processing.


Q: Where does Franco Ikura come from?
A: Our Ikura comes from all across the Pacific Northwest.

Q: Why is it called Ikura?
A: In the context of Japanese cuisine, "Ikura" refers to salmon roe, which are the eggs of salmon.


Q: Do you have your own fishermen?
A: We partner with boats, fishing docks, and fishermen all along the West Coast and Puget Sound. We’ve built long lasting relationships with our fleet using our “Fisherman First” mantra that allows us to bring the best Ikura to market.


Q: How do you prepare Ikura?
A: Our Ikura can be delivered fresh or frozen. If frozen, allow to thaw in refrigeration before consuming. You can enjoy Ikura in a variety of ways, ranging from adding it to sushi, sashimi, gunkan maki, donburi. You can also put a few pieces straight on the back of your hand between your thumb and pointer finger and eat like this. Ikura is great to add to many dishes for a pop of color and burst of flavor.


Q: How soon after receiving my Ikura do I need to consume it?
A: If the Ikura is frozen, it has a shelf life of 2 years. If the Ikura is fresh it has a shelf life of 3 months.


Q: What species of Ikura do you offer?
A: Our species are dependent on the fishery and corresponding season. Please reach out to our sales team to find out what species we currently have and what we have coming !


Q: Do you ship year-round?
A: Not currently. Our inventory is dependent on the fishery and the corresponding season. Please contact your sales representative to find out what we currently have to offer and when we can expect different species throughout the year.


Q: Do you ship wholesale?
A: We wholesale both domestically and internationally! Please check our Wholesale section to get in contact with our team for pricing and availability.