In 2022, Americans consumed 19.7 pounds of seafood per capita, down 0.8 pounds from 2021, according to the National Fisheries Institute’s Annual Top 10 List, which was published on November 11, 2024. Though experiencing a slight decrease in consumption, shrimp (overwhelmingly supplied to retail stores and foodservice operators in frozen form), kept its spot as the most consumed seafood species in the USA (at 5.5 lbs.), followed by salmon (3.22 lbs.)
The latest numbers show a continuation of the “tinned fish” craze featuring increases in consumption of canned tuna (2.20 lbs.), canned shellfish and sardines.
Pangasius and cod recorded the biggest gains in consumption, and staples like tilapia, catfish and Alaska pollock held their places in rankings. Meanwhile, oysters joined the NFI Top 10 List for the first time ever.
“The 2022 Top 10 List reflects the correction that took place following the 2021 supply surge which saw a 9% increase in available seafood,” NFI Programs Director Richard Barry, said. “Since the previous year experienced record high supply growth, a slight dip the following year was expected. The 2022 per capita number, however, remains higher than pre-pandemic consumption, an encouraging sign of retained seafood consumers,” said Richard Barry, programs director for the Reston, Virginia-based NFI trade association.
The Top 10 List makes up 79% of total consumption, which shows that Americans are continuing to diversify their seafood dining experiences.
