United States Frozen and Canned Seafood Market SIZE & SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS & FORECASTS UP TO 2030

United States Frozen and Canned Seafood Market Analysis

The United States Frozen and Canned Seafood Market size is estimated at 18.6 billion USD in 2025, and is expected to reach 19.86 billion USD by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 1.33% during the forecast period (2025-2030).

The frozen and canned seafood industry in the United States is experiencing significant transformation driven by changing consumer preferences and the evolution of the retail landscape. Consumer spending on frozen seafood reached USD 8 billion in 2022, reflecting strong market demand despite economic challenges. Major retailers are actively expanding their presence, with Aldi leading store openings with 49 new locations in 2023, followed by Sprouts Farmers Market (16 stores), H-E-B (12 stores), and Whole Foods Market (11 stores). This retail expansion has enhanced product accessibility and distribution efficiency across the country.

The industry is witnessing a notable shift in consumption patterns and retail infrastructure development. As of 2023, there were approximately 63,348 supermarkets and hypermarkets in the United States, creating a robust distribution network for retail seafood products. The entry of international players like T&T Supermarket, opening its first U.S. flagship store in 2023, demonstrates the market's attractiveness and potential for growth. These developments are complemented by technological advancements in freezing and preservation techniques, enabling better product quality and longer shelf life.

The foodservice sector plays a crucial role in market dynamics, with approximately 647,288 restaurants operating in 2022, marking a 1.6% increase from the previous year. This growth has been accompanied by innovative menu offerings and increased incorporation of commercial seafood products in various cuisines. The average American consumed less than 3.5 pounds of canned seafood in 2022, indicating significant room for growth in per capita consumption through targeted marketing and product innovation.

The industry is increasingly focusing on sustainability and transparency in sourcing practices. Major retailers and producers are implementing comprehensive traceability systems and obtaining certifications from organizations like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI). These initiatives are supported by technological advancements in packaging and preservation methods, which not only extend product shelf life but also maintain nutritional value. The market has seen significant investment in cold chain infrastructure and storage facilities, ensuring product quality throughout the distribution network.

United States Frozen and Canned Seafood Market Trends

Overfishing, high cost of fuel, and labor shortages had a negative impact on the production of captured fish

• Based on value, bivalve mollusks, including oysters, clams, and mussels, make up more than 80% of marine aquaculture production in the United States in 2022. Fish is the largest sector of aquaculture in the United States, which accounted for 66% of the market in 2022, followed by crustaceans and mollusks. The most popular types of fish farmed internationally are salmon, shrimp, trout, and sea bass, but new developments in technology, aquaculture feeds, and management strategies are making other species available. By weight, marine aquaculture makes up 7% of all domestic seafood production. However, because of the emphasis on high-value items, aquaculture now accounts for 24% of the value of domestic seafood.
• Overfishing, high fuel costs, and labor shortages have negatively impacted the production of captured fish, with fish production decreasing by 15% in 2022. Additionally, illegal fishing by foreign nationals has also impacted fish output. However, the overall drop in the actual value of fisheries production has been tempered by growth in the real value of aquaculture.
• In order to support producers and encourage fish production in the country, government assistance has come into play to aid the market's growth and development over the years. By assisting them through laws and investments, the US government has demonstrated its determination to encourage local and independent seafood producers. For instance, in February 2022, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) invested approximately USD 50 million in grants to support seafood processors, processing facilities, and processing vessels through the Seafood Processors Pandemic Response and Safety Block Grant Program (SBRS).

Disruption in supply chain increased the price fluctuations

• Fish prices in the country witnessed standard growth in the review period and registered an average growth of 30.6% from 2017 to 2022. It is estimated that demand will outpace supply moving forward. Fish prices followed an upward trend in recent years due to limitations on supply growth, particularly for capturing fisheries, and continued registering strong demand. For fish products sold with weight information, the prices increased by more than 2.2% in 2021 and another 5% in 2022. For products sold without weight information, the trend in prices and percentage change in price was similar, but with lower average prices and a wider range of growth rate values. However, in 2021, international fish prices were, on average, just 6-8% higher than the previous year. This was primarily due to price declines for many important farmed species, including shrimp, salmon, pangasius, catfish, tilapia, and canned tuna, as a consequence of supply outpacing demand.
• On the supply side, stable production of capture fisheries, slowing growth in aquaculture production, and increased costs for inputs such as feed, energy, and oil are expected to play a role in the segment. Due to strong global demand, the prices of fishmeal and fish oil are expected to increase by 30% and 13%, respectively, by 2030.
• In 2022, the United States was one of the largest fish-importing markets, following the European Union, and accounted for an import value of around 18%. Urbanization and expansion of the fish-consuming middle class have fueled demand and growth in the country. The US seafood imports destined for retail support the largest share of the total economic contributions, which was USD 26 billion in industry output (37.0%) and USD 15 billion in value-added (39.7%) in 2022.

OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT

Segment Analysis: Type

Shrimp Segment in US Frozen and Canned Seafood Market

The shrimp segment has established itself as a dominant force in the United States frozen seafood and canned seafood market, commanding approximately 45% of the total market share in 2024. This substantial market presence is driven by the versatility of shrimp products in various dishes such as stir-fries, pasta, salads, and appetizers, making it a versatile ingredient that appeals to a wide range of customers. The segment's growth is supported by strong import channels and advanced processing facilities that ensure consistent supply to both retail and foodservice sectors. The foodservice sector, particularly restaurants and hotels, has shown increased preference for frozen shrimp due to its consistent pricing, portion control advantages, and year-round availability. The segment's strength is further reinforced by the rising consumer preference for protein-rich seafood options and the increasing adoption of frozen shrimp in ready-to-cook meal solutions.

Fish Segment in US Frozen and Canned Seafood Market

The fish segment is projected to experience the highest growth rate in the market, with an expected growth of approximately 2% during 2024-2029. This growth trajectory is primarily driven by increasing consumer awareness about the health benefits of fish consumption and the rising demand for convenient, ready-to-cook frozen fish products. The segment's expansion is supported by technological advancements in freezing and packaging techniques that help maintain product quality and extend shelf life. Manufacturers are increasingly focusing on value-added fish products, including pre-seasoned fillets and portion-controlled servings, which are particularly appealing to health-conscious consumers and busy households. The growth is further accelerated by the expanding distribution networks, particularly through supermarket chains and online retail channels, making frozen fish products more accessible to consumers across the country.

Remaining Segments in Type Segmentation

The other seafood segment, encompassing products such as lobsters, crabs, and oysters, plays a crucial role in diversifying the frozen and canned seafood market offerings. This segment caters to premium market segments and special occasions, providing high-value products to both retail and foodservice channels. The segment's performance is closely tied to the availability of wild-caught species and aquaculture production, with sustainability certifications becoming increasingly important for consumer acceptance. The processing and packaging innovations in this segment have helped maintain product quality and extend shelf life, making these premium seafood options more accessible to a broader consumer base through various distribution channels.

Segment Analysis: Distribution Channel

On-Trade Segment in US Frozen and Canned Seafood Market

The on-trade distribution channel dominates the US frozen and canned seafood market, commanding approximately 55% of the total market value in 2024. This channel's prominence is primarily driven by the strong presence of restaurants, hotels, and foodservice establishments across the country. The segment's strength is reinforced by the increasing trend of dining out and the growing popularity of seafood in restaurant menus. Foodservice establishments prefer frozen and processed seafood products due to their consistent quality, longer shelf life, and ease of portion control. The segment's robust performance is supported by the expanding network of restaurants and hotels, with seafood being frequently utilized as a key ingredient in various dishes including pasta, rice preparations, sandwiches, wraps, and soups.

Off-Trade Segment in US Frozen and Canned Seafood Market

The off-trade segment is projected to exhibit the strongest growth trajectory in the market during 2024-2029, particularly driven by the rapid expansion of online retail channels. This growth is supported by the increasing adoption of digital payment technologies and the rising preference for convenient shopping options. The segment's evolution is characterized by the integration of advanced technologies in retail operations, including self-checkout kiosks and walk-out technology in supermarkets. The expansion of e-commerce platforms and the growing penetration of smartphone-based grocery delivery applications are creating new opportunities for market growth. Additionally, the development of specialized online retailers dedicated to convenience seafood products and the implementation of subscription-based delivery models are further accelerating the segment's growth potential.

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