The appetite for seafood has grown in the US with consumption of both fresh and frozen produce up nearly 8% in a single year.
In 2021, Americans consumed a record 20.5 pounds (9.3 kg) per head of seafood, an increase of 1.5 pounds (0.68 kg) from the previous year, according to figures released by trade body, National Fisheries Institute (NFI).
“The 2021 Top 10 List bears out some long-held consumption predictions,” said NFI programs director, Richard Barry.
“For years, industry experts have reported a big overall increase in pandemic-era seafood consumption. There’s no doubt we’ll continue to see pandemic-related market forces influence these numbers in different ways over the next few years.
“But this snapshot in time is evidence of a big consumption win.”
Shrimp grew its number by nearly a pound per person, solidifying its place as America’s favourite seafood. Salmon also saw big gains whilst staples like canned tuna, tilapia, and Alaska Pollock held their ground. Meanwhile, pangasius jumped three spots to number six and clam made its way back onto the list.
In previous years, the Top 10 list has made up an outsized portion of US seafood consumption at nearly 90%. This time the familiar names on the list make up only 76%, evidence, says that NFI, that Americans are slowly trying new things.
