Processed Seafood Market Size & Industry Report, 2033

Processed Seafood Market Overview

The Processed Seafood Market size was valued at USD 51069.04 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 77578.92 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 4.8% from 2025 to 2033.

The processed seafood market is expanding rapidly due to the rising global consumption of protein-rich food. In 2024, global seafood consumption surpassed 181 million metric tons, with processed seafood accounting for over 32% of total volume. Consumer preferences are shifting towards convenience, and ready-to-eat seafood options are gaining popularity in both urban and semi-urban populations. In Asia-Pacific alone, processed seafood consumption increased by 14% between 2022 and 2024.

Major product segments such as frozen, smoked, and canned seafood collectively contributed to over 65 million metric tons of trade volume in the past year. With nearly 46% of consumers in North America opting for frozen seafood over fresh variants, the convenience factor is driving the transition. Sustainable sourcing practices and technological innovations in preservation have also played a key role, with 58% of global processing plants adopting advanced freezing or vacuum-packing methods by 2023. This upward trend is further supported by rising exports, which grew by 9% from 2022 to 2024.

Key Findings

Top Driver reason: Rising consumer demand for convenient, long-shelf-life protein options due to changing lifestyles and urbanization.

Top Country/Region: China leads global consumption with over 11 million metric tons of processed seafood consumed in 2024.

Top Segment: Frozen seafood holds the largest share, accounting for 38% of processed seafood consumption globally.

Processed Seafood Market Trends

The processed seafood market is undergoing transformation, driven by technological advancements, evolving dietary preferences, and increased demand for sustainable food solutions. In 2024, over 51% of seafood-consuming households in urban areas reported purchasing at least one processed seafood product per week. Among these, frozen fillets and ready-to-eat canned tuna were the top choices.

Sustainability is a growing trend, with 36% of consumers prioritizing eco-labeled products when buying processed seafood. This shift has led to a 23% increase in demand for products sourced through sustainable aquaculture. Vacuum packaging and modified-atmosphere packaging (MAP) technologies have gained traction, with 18% more manufacturers adopting them in 2023 compared to 2021. These technologies help extend shelf life by an average of 40%, improving distribution efficiency and reducing food waste.

Plant-based seafood alternatives are also entering the market, with 1.4 million kilograms of plant-derived processed seafood sold in 2023, a 26% increase from 2022. Furthermore, regional culinary preferences are being incorporated into product lines, with items like spiced sardines in Southeast Asia and teriyaki-glazed mackerel in Japan capturing significant consumer interest.

In terms of packaging, 62% of new product launches in 2024 featured resealable, recyclable materials. These packaging innovations not only enhance sustainability but also improve convenience. Cold-chain logistics networks expanded by 17% globally from 2022 to 2024, supporting the safe transportation of processed seafood across borders. With online seafood delivery platforms growing by 21%, e-commerce is also emerging as a powerful distribution channel for processed seafood.

Processed Seafood Market Dynamics

DRIVER

Growing demand for ready-to-cook and ready-to-eat seafood meals

Increased urbanization and time-constrained lifestyles have led to greater consumption of ready-to-cook and ready-to-eat processed seafood. In 2024, approximately 41% of global seafood consumers preferred pre-marinated or pre-cut seafood options, saving an average of 25 minutes in meal preparation. The demand for easy-to-prepare protein meals contributed to a 13% rise in processed seafood purchases across major supermarkets and hypermarkets. Additionally, microwaveable seafood meals saw a 19% year-over-year growth, with 8.3 million units sold globally.

RESTRAINT

Volatile raw material supply and environmental concerns

The processed seafood market faces challenges related to the inconsistent availability of raw fish due to overfishing and climate change. In 2023, the global catch of wild tuna dropped by 6%, directly impacting canned tuna production, which fell by 4.5%. Similarly, rising sea temperatures affected Atlantic cod availability, reducing output from North Atlantic fisheries by 9%. These shortages contributed to a 12% increase in procurement costs, limiting product availability and pushing some manufacturers to lower production volumes. Environmental protests in key harvesting regions further delayed shipments, affecting 11% of scheduled export volumes in the second half of 2023.

OPPORTUNITY

Expansion in plant-based and allergen-free processed seafood

Plant-based seafood analogs are emerging as a major opportunity area. In 2023, 2.6 million people globally identified seafood allergies, creating demand for allergen-free protein options. This has led to the development of plant-based shrimp, crab cakes, and fish sticks made from soy protein, seaweed, and legumes. Between 2022 and 2024, production of these alternatives increased by 31%, especially in Western markets where 45% of flexitarian consumers are actively reducing animal-based seafood consumption. Investment in plant-based seafood processing increased by 16% in 2024, resulting in broader retail availability across 47 countries.

CHALLENGE

High operational costs and logistical complexity

Maintaining cold-chain logistics and hygiene standards presents a major challenge. In 2024, cold storage costs rose by 14%, driven by higher energy prices and equipment maintenance expenses. Over 68% of processed seafood requires controlled temperature transportation, and any deviations can result in spoilage or recalls. In 2023 alone, 4.1 million kilograms of frozen seafood were discarded globally due to logistics failure. The sector also requires significant capital investment in machinery, with industrial-grade smokers and blast freezers costing upwards of $350,000 per unit. These factors increase the entry barrier for new players and limit market access in low-income regions.

Processed Seafood Market Segmentation

The processed seafood market is segmented by type and application to better understand consumer behavior and product demand across different demographics and industries. This dual-layer segmentation helps manufacturers align production with market needs, leading to optimized logistics, targeted marketing, and efficient product development. In 2024, over 182 million metric tons of seafood were consumed globally, and approximately 61 million metric tons were processed across these key segments.

By Type

Frozen Seafood: Frozen seafood is the most consumed category, accounting for 38% of processed seafood volumes globally. In 2024, over 23 million metric tons of frozen fish, shellfish, and mollusks were traded. Japan, the U.S., and China are the top consumers, with Japan alone accounting for 1.8 million metric tons. This segment benefits from long shelf life—up to 18 months—and retains nearly 90% of the original nutritional value, making it a preferred choice for both residential and commercial users. Sales of frozen shrimp and squid increased by 14% in Asia-Pacific from 2022 to 2024.
Smoked Seafood: Smoked seafood represents 14% of the processed category and is favored for its taste, aroma, and artisanal appeal. Germany, Norway, and the UK led this segment in 2024, consuming a combined 730,000 metric tons of smoked fish. Smoked salmon makes up 60% of this volume, followed by herring and mackerel. Small-batch producers in Europe expanded by 11% over the past two years, responding to increased consumer demand for gourmet offerings. Shelf life of vacuum-packed smoked seafood is around 30 days, and 48% of products in this category are sold through premium retailers.
Canned Seafood: Canned seafood comprises 21% of the total processed seafood segment, with products like tuna, sardines, and mackerel dominating retail shelves. In 2024, the U.S. imported over 350,000 metric tons of canned tuna alone, while Spain and Italy combined consumed 420,000 metric tons of canned sardines. These products typically have a shelf life of 2–5 years and are favored for their portability, affordability, and ease of storage. Supermarkets account for 66% of canned seafood sales globally.
Dried Seafood: Dried seafood accounts for 9% of global processed seafood, with strong demand in South Korea, China, and Vietnam. In 2023, South Korea consumed approximately 560,000 metric tons of dried fish, including anchovies and shrimp. These products are widely used in traditional cuisines and are often sold in markets and specialty stores. Dried seafood can last up to 12 months without refrigeration and is valued for its light weight and intense flavor.
Surimi Seafood: Surimi products, such as imitation crab sticks and fish cakes, hold an 11% share of the processed seafood market. Japan and the U.S. are the largest consumers, contributing to 65% of global demand. In 2024, surimi-based product sales in the U.S. alone reached 1.2 million metric tons. Surimi is typically made from white fish such as Alaskan pollock and is known for its affordability and versatility in dishes like sushi, salads, and sandwiches. Its low-fat, high-protein profile makes it attractive to health-conscious consumers.
Others: The “Others” segment includes marinated seafood, seafood-based pâtés, and ready-to-cook seafood snacks. It accounts for 7% of total processed seafood consumption. Products in this category are seeing increased demand in Latin America and Europe. In 2024, over 960,000 metric tons of marinated seafood were sold, with chili-lime anchovies and teriyaki mackerel gaining popularity in niche gourmet markets. This category also includes newer plant-based alternatives mimicking seafood flavor and texture.

By Application

Commercial: The commercial segment leads in volume consumption, accounting for 58% of the processed seafood market in 2024. Restaurants, fast food outlets, cafeterias, hotels, and institutional buyers consume over 35 million metric tons annually. Frozen and canned seafood are the most utilized formats due to ease of storage and consistent quality. Quick-service restaurants contributed to a 13% increase in bulk seafood procurement between 2022 and 2024. In the U.S. alone, 82% of seafood-serving restaurants relied on processed formats in 2024, driven by labor savings and food safety compliance.
Residential: The residential segment makes up 36% of the market and is growing steadily. In 2023, households across North America, Europe, and Asia collectively consumed 21.9 million metric tons of processed seafood. Canned tuna, frozen fillets, and surimi-based products are preferred for weekly meal prep. Over 64% of surveyed households in urban areas reported using processed seafood at least once per week. The rise of e-commerce has facilitated home deliveries, with online seafood orders increasing by 21% year-over-year.
Others: The “Others” category includes specialty applications such as military rations, pet food, and clinical nutrition. It accounts for 6% of processed seafood demand. In 2023, over 1.1 million metric tons were allocated for these uses. The military segment alone procured 180,000 metric tons of shelf-stable seafood packs. In pet nutrition, omega-3 rich fish by-products are used in premium dog and cat foods, especially in Western markets, where usage increased by 9% from 2022 to 2024.

Processed Seafood Market Regional Outlook

The processed seafood market demonstrates regional variability based on consumption patterns, infrastructure, and product preferences. While developed economies emphasize convenience and sustainability, emerging markets prioritize affordability and traditional preservation techniques.

North America

North America is one of the leading regions for processed seafood consumption, accounting for 23% of global demand in 2024. The United States consumed over 4.1 million metric tons of processed seafood, with frozen and canned tuna being the most popular items. Household penetration stood at 68%, with 42% of buyers preferring resealable packaging for convenience. Retail expansion and online seafood delivery contributed to a 15% rise in sales in the last two years. In Canada, smoked salmon remains a staple, with 290,000 metric tons sold in 2023 alone.

Europe

Europe holds a substantial share, driven by strong demand in countries such as Spain, France, and the UK. In 2024, European consumption reached 6.8 million metric tons, led by smoked and canned seafood. Germany accounted for 1.2 million metric tons of canned fish consumption, particularly mackerel and sardines. Sustainability plays a key role, with over 48% of consumers opting for eco-certified seafood products. Norway leads in exports, shipping 960,000 metric tons of smoked and frozen fish to EU markets in 2023.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific dominates global production and consumption, with 52% of processed seafood output originating from the region. China alone consumed over 11 million metric tons in 2024. Japan and South Korea follow closely, driven by demand for surimi, dried seafood, and frozen fillets. India’s export of frozen shrimp increased by 18% in 2023, reaching 740,000 metric tons. Infrastructure development, particularly in cold-chain logistics, has expanded by 21% since 2022, supporting greater regional trade and product distribution.

Middle East & Africa

This region is experiencing rapid market growth, albeit from a smaller base. In 2024, regional consumption exceeded 2.2 million metric tons, with the UAE and South Africa leading in per capita demand. Smoked and frozen seafood are preferred, especially among expatriate populations. Government programs in countries like Egypt and Kenya have increased investments in seafood processing, with 14 new facilities inaugurated between 2022 and 2024. Imports remain critical, with 68% of products sourced externally.

List of Top Proessed Seafoo Companies

Marine Harvest
Thai Union Frozen Products
Maruha Nichiro Corporation
Nippon Suisan Kaisha
Kyokuyo
Trident Seafood
Nueva Pescanova
High Liner Foods
Cermaq
Nomad Foods
Grieg Seafood
Austevoll Seafood
Guolian Aquatic Products
Zoneco Group

Top Two Companies with the Highest Share

Marine Harvest: leads the global market, producing over 450,000 metric tons of processed salmon and whitefish annually, with distribution in more than 60 countries.

Thai Union Frozen Products: ranks second, exporting 420,000 metric tons of canned and frozen seafood in 2024 across North America, Europe, and Asia.

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

Investment in the processed seafood market is increasing as demand for protein-rich convenience foods grows globally. In 2023, capital expenditures on seafood processing equipment reached $2.1 billion, a 12% rise from 2022. More than 80 new processing plants were launched globally, with a concentration in Southeast Asia and Latin America. Investors are targeting frozen seafood units and pre-packaged meal kits, which grew by 16% in investment volume.

Venture capital is flowing into plant-based seafood startups, with 14 major funding rounds completed in 2023. These companies are using pea protein, seaweed, and jackfruit to simulate the taste and texture of seafood. By the end of 2024, more than 3.2 million kilograms of plant-based seafood were sold across major retail chains, drawing attention from sustainability-focused investors.

Cold-chain logistics saw a 17% investment increase in 2024, with 40% of funds directed to energy-efficient refrigeration systems. These systems help cut costs and reduce spoilage by maintaining temperatures as low as -25°C for extended periods. The expansion of refrigerated transport fleets has increased seafood distribution capacity by 11% globally.

Furthermore, emerging markets are attracting infrastructure investments. In Africa, foreign investors funded five new seafood processing zones, expected to create 9,000 jobs by 2026. Public-private partnerships in South Asia led to the launch of co-processing units, where small fishers can utilize advanced equipment for value addition. Additionally, digital platforms selling subscription-based seafood boxes raised over $90 million collectively in 2023, with average order volumes increasing by 13% per month.

New Product Development

Innovation in processed seafood is shaping consumer behavior. In 2024, over 290 new processed seafood products were launched globally. These include gluten-free, low-sodium, and omega-3 enriched variants that cater to health-conscious consumers. For example, canned mackerel infused with flaxseed oil gained traction in the UK, selling 380,000 units in its first six months.

Manufacturers are focusing on regional flavors. In Southeast Asia, spicy marinated squid and coconut milk-based seafood stews became top sellers, with 2.1 million packs sold across Thailand and Indonesia in 2023. In Latin America, citrus-cured anchovy and peppered tuna gained 19% shelf space growth in supermarkets.

Technology is driving formulation improvements. Enzymatic freezing and ultrasonic thawing were adopted by 11% more producers in 2024, reducing processing times by 30% and preserving nutritional value. Coating technologies like edible seaweed film are replacing traditional preservatives, extending shelf life by up to 20% without chemicals.

Convenient meal kits with pre-portioned seafood, vegetables, and sauces are also expanding. In 2023, over 4 million seafood-based kits were sold globally, with top demand from working professionals aged 25–40. QR code integration on packaging, providing cooking videos and nutritional facts, increased consumer engagement by 27% in pilot markets.

Child-friendly seafood snacks, such as omega-3 enriched fish sticks and flavored shrimp puffs, are a growing segment. In 2024, over 1.2 million family-size packs were distributed across European markets, targeting parents seeking high-protein alternatives for children.

Five Recent Developments

Marine Harvest opened a new automated processing plant in Norway, increasing daily processing capacity by 22 metric tons and reducing water usage by 16%.
Thai Union launched a line of plant-based shrimp and crab sticks, which sold 2.8 million units across 12 countries in their first year.
Grieg Seafood introduced blockchain-based traceability for frozen salmon, covering 120,000 metric tons of annual output with real-time tracking.
Nomad Foods expanded its frozen seafood portfolio, adding 14 new products including gluten-free fish cakes and protein-rich cod burgers.
Nueva Pescanova partnered with marine institutes to farm octopus sustainably, yielding 900,000 octopus units annually while reducing ocean harvest by 18%.

Report Coverage of Processed Seafood Market

This comprehensive report covers the full value chain of the processed seafood market, including upstream sourcing, midstream processing, and downstream retail distribution. Data from 80 countries and over 300 brands were analyzed, accounting for 92% of global trade volume. The report outlines detailed consumption statistics, regional trends, pricing benchmarks, and segment-wise analysis across frozen, smoked, canned, dried, surimi, and other seafood products.

The report evaluates processing technologies, including freezing, smoking, canning, and drying methods, and tracks their adoption rate across regions. In 2024, 61% of processors used at least two advanced preservation methods to improve shelf life and product safety. In addition, packaging innovation is analyzed in depth, revealing that recyclable and resealable formats represented 43% of new launches in the past 12 months.

E-commerce trends, including direct-to-consumer seafood sales, were also covered. Online transactions accounted for 18% of total processed seafood sales in 2023. Subscription-based models and flash-frozen deliveries drove a 14% increase in repeat purchases, with strong growth among consumers aged 30–50.

The report also includes operational challenges such as raw material volatility, transportation bottlenecks, and sustainability regulations. It evaluates government initiatives supporting local processing facilities, especially in emerging markets, where 26 new seafood zones were registered in 2023. Strategic recommendations are provided for stakeholders, including processors, investors, retailers, and policy-makers.

Through detailed graphs, regional maps, and forecast models, the report offers actionable insights. It supports decisions related to investment planning, product development, distribution partnerships, and marketing strategies tailored to consumer behavior and regional demand profiles.