Annette Kenny, Food & Beverage Division, Bord Bia – Irish Food Board

Based on a recent report from Mintel, Fish and Seafood US October 2012, sales in the category came to an estimated $16.2 billion in 2012. This represents an increase of 14.6% in the United States for the 2007-2012 period. While year on year growth has remained minimal, fish has displayed a positive performance, over the period.  Increased consumer interest regarding healthy eating and the fact that fish is perceived as having health enhancing attributes, is contributing towards positive growth. However, higher prices are a key concern.

Mintel project the US market to grow by 14.2% (in dollar sales) for the period 2012-2017. A number of key factors are at play here, namely continued education on sustainability around fishing and also continued product innovation focussing on health and convenience.

Based on exclusive consumer research, commissioned by Mintel in this market, some key points stand out

• When looking at the types of seafood consumed, it would seem that opportunities still exist with shellfish and other types of seafood including eel and octopus. Manufacturers will need to provide pre-cooked product reducing the amount of preparation on the part of the consumer. Many consumers may also not be familiar with how to prepare and cook  such products.
• While overall fish consumption remains strong, very few consumers are having the recommended 2-3 portions of fish per week. A very low percentage of those surveyed eat fish once per week or indeed more often than that.
  Some examples of new product development around fish products with a focus in the US market, as produced by Mintel GNPD (Dec 2012) are

Copper River Seafoods Fisherman Favorites Garlic Pepper Wild Alaska Salmon Portions

This particular product which is gluten free can be baked, pan seared, microwaved or put in the grill. This product can be purchased in a 36 oz pack containing 6-7 portions

Abba Fish-Balls in Dill Sauce

This particular product retails is a 13.2 oz can, with the fish balls in a dill sauce. This product is ready to eat.