The saury feeds on zooplankton, such as copepods, krill, amphipods, and the eggs and larvae of common fish, such as anchovies, due to their lack of stomach, and their short straight intestines [citation needed].

The internal organs of the saury may contain small, red, earthworm-like parasites named Rhadinorhynchus selkirki; these are harmless.

[citation needed] A few of the natural predators of Pacific saury include marine mammals, squid and tuna.

Other condiments may include soy sauce, sudachi, lime, lemon, or other citrus juices.

Although rarely used for sushi, sanma-zushi is a regional delicacy along parts of the Kii Peninsula, especially along the coast of southern Mie Prefecture.

It is mostly eaten in the region of North Gyeongsang Province in places such as Pohang, Uljin, and Yeongdeok, where a large amount of the fish are harvested.

In Russia, it is sold canned with salt and spice, sometimes with the addition of vegetable oil or tomato sauce.

In the UK, they are usually called blueys, possibly due to people confusing the Pacific saury with blue mackerel.

[citation needed] Approximately ninety Taiwanese vessels participate in the long distance North Pacific fishery.