According to the Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board, white shrimp have traditionally been considered the premium large shrimp in Louisiana. They are slightly more tender than other shrimp, and their shells are easier to peel.

Brown shrimp provide the bulk of Louisiana’s shrimp production. The difference between the shrimp, especially in smaller sizes, is very slight. Brown shrimp are slightly firmer when they reach a larger size, and sometimes develop a slight iodine taste, which may not be noticeable to the average palate.