Germany: Alaska pollock remains the most popular edible fish
Alaska pollock remains the most popular fish among consumers in Germany. According to the latest figures, the quantity consumed in Germany in 2022 increased significantly to 234,847 tons, which corresponds to a market share of 19.3 percent. These figures were published by the Fish Information Center (FIZ) in Hamburg based on data from the Federal Office for Agriculture and Food (BLE).
Just behind Alaska pollock in terms of consumer popularity is salmon, with a consumption volume of 224,344 tons and a market share of 18.4 percent.
The undisputed number three is tuna with a consumption volume of 164,847 tons, which corresponds to a market share of 13.5 percent. After Alaska pollock (up 47,089 tons), tuna recorded the second-highest sales growth in 2022 with an increase of 29,822 tons.
According to FIZ, the second-highest consumption volume of fish, crustaceans and molluscs in the past ten years was calculated for the German market with a total catch weight of around 1.217 million tons. Only fish sales in 2020 were slightly higher, "which was due to the change in purchasing behaviour and the temporary closure of out-of-home catering during the coronavirus pandemic", according to the marketing organization of the German fishing industry. FIZ puts the per capita consumption of fish and seafood in 2022 at 14.4 kilograms.
According to the data, herring and shrimp are in fourth and fifth place on the popularity scale with a market share of 9.9% and 8.9% respectively. Overall, the top five German fish favorites have continuously increased their market share from 60 percent in 2002 to 70 percent over the past 20 years. "Demand for salmon and prawns in particular has been extremely dynamic during this time."
In terms of agriculture, Germany imports a significant amount of fish, with Alaska pollock and salmon being among the top choices, contributing to the overall consumption of fish at 37.7%. Nutrition experts emphasize the importance of balanced diets, including fish, which is rich in nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids. Fishing industries worldwide continue to provide a substantial portion of the global food supply, ensuring that consumers have access to a variety of seafood options.
Source: www.dpa.com
