Frozen Seafood Market Size, Share and Emerging Trends

The global frozen seafood market has been on a robust growth trajectory, with the market size estimated at USD 23.33 billion in 2024. This market is expected to rise significantly, from USD 24.78 billion in 2025 to nearly USD 42.58 billion by 2034, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.2% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. Several factors are driving this growth, including increased health consciousness, demand for convenient and sustainable protein sources, and innovations in freezing and packaging technologies.

Frozen Seafood Market Overview

The rising cost of fresh seafood in many regions has significantly contributed to the growing demand for frozen seafood. As fresh seafood becomes increasingly difficult to access due to high prices, consumers are turning to frozen alternatives. With frozen seafood playing a key role in this growth.

Frozen seafood offers a more affordable option, allowing consumers to enjoy a variety of seafood products at lower prices compared to their fresh counterparts. Freezing seafood not only makes it more affordable but also extends its shelf life, reducing the need for immediate consumption. This helps mitigate financial strains caused by spoilage or waste. As a result, frozen seafood provides an accessible and cost-effective solution, particularly in price-sensitive markets, making it easier for consumers to enjoy seafood without breaking the bank.

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What is Frozen Seafood Market?

The Frozen Seafood Market is primarily driven by the increasing demand for convenient, ready-to-cook protein meals. It includes seafood products such as fish, shrimp, crab, lobster, mollusks, and processed seafood, all preserved through freezing. The market spans the entire value chain, encompassing catching, processing, freezing, packaging, distribution, and retail, with products available through supermarkets, food service channels, and e-commerce platforms.

Key factors fueling market growth include:

• Rising seafood consumption: With more consumers incorporating seafood into their diets, the demand for frozen seafood continues to grow.
• Convenience: Frozen seafood provides a quick, ready-to-cook meal option, aligning with the busy lifestyles of today’s consumers.
• Longer shelf life: Freezing extends the shelf life of seafood, ensuring year-round availability and reducing the need for immediate consumption.
• Global cold chain expansion: Improved cold chain infrastructure has facilitated the widespread distribution of frozen seafood, further driving market growth.

Key Drivers Growth

• Health Consciousness: As consumers increasingly turn to healthier food options, seafood particularly frozen seafood has gained prominence. Rich in high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential nutrients, frozen seafood offers a healthy alternative to other types of protein such as red meat. The market’s growth is also fueled by rising awareness about the health benefits of consuming fish, including its role in reducing the risk of heart disease and promoting brain health.
• Convenience and Sustainability: Modern consumers are seeking convenience in their food choices. Frozen seafood provides the ideal solution offering easy-to-prepare options that can be stored for longer periods. Moreover, frozen seafood is increasingly seen as a sustainable protein source. Many seafood companies are adopting sustainable fishing practices and sourcing from eco-friendly aquaculture farms, contributing to the growing demand for responsibly produced seafood.
• Innovations in Freezing and Packaging: Advancements in freezing and packaging technologies have played a crucial role in enhancing the appeal of frozen seafood. New freezing techniques ensure better retention of flavor, texture, and nutritional value, while innovations in packaging, such as vacuum-sealed and easy-to-open trays, improve the consumer experience. Additionally, packaging innovations that offer portion control and reduce waste are further driving market growth.

Frozen Seafood Market Trends

• Industry Growth Overview: The growing recognition of the health benefits of seafood, including its high protein content and omega-3 fatty acids, is fueling consumer demand. Economic growth and the rise of middle-class populations, particularly in emerging markets like the Asia Pacific, are boosting overall demand for frozen seafood. The convenience and year-round availability of high-quality frozen seafood make it a preferred choice for restaurants, hotels, and catering businesses.
• Sustainability Trends: As environmental concerns grow, industry stakeholders are focusing on sustainable practices to ensure the long-term health of fish populations and protect marine ecosystems. Companies are increasingly seeking certifications for eco-friendly fishing and aquaculture practices to showcase their commitment to sustainability. A notable trend is the shift from traditional plastic and polystyrene packaging to more eco-friendly alternatives like recyclable and biodegradable paper and cardboard. Additionally, methods like flash-freezing and Individually Quick Frozen (IQF) techniques help preserve seafood’s texture, flavor, and nutritional quality, reducing spoilage and food waste.
• Startup Ecosystem: Startups in the frozen seafood market are exploring innovative distribution strategies, including local processing centers and e-commerce platforms, to reach a broader consumer base. Some are developing technologies aimed at improving food safety and quality assessment for both consumers and food businesses. Companies focused on premium sourcing, such as East Fish Processing LLC (UAE), and those leveraging advanced preservation and distribution technologies, like The Deep Seafood Company LLC, are paving the way for innovation in the sector.

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Emerging Technologies Revolutionizing the Frozen Seafood Market

Recent advancements in fish freezing and cold chain technologies have significantly improved the preservation of quality, safety, and nutritional value in seafood. Traditional methods for assessing freshness are often invasive and time-consuming, but modern sensor technologies now enable non-invasive, real-time monitoring of spoilage markers, such as volatile compounds and biochemical changes. This shift allows for more precise tracking of seafood quality.

Key technological developments in freezing techniques include Individually Quick Freezing (IQF), super-chilling, cryogenic freezing, and ultrasound-assisted freezing. These methods enhance texture, reduce nutrient loss, and extend shelf life, improving the overall quality of frozen seafood. Additionally, intelligent sensors, IoT systems, and advanced packaging are transforming cold chain logistics by offering better traceability, real-time data collection, and enhanced quality management.

For example, Trident Seafoods, a global leader in wild Alaska seafood, uses FAS (Frozen at Sea) technology on its catcher-processor ships to ensure top-quality seafood from the moment it’s harvested. Meanwhile, companies like Scott & Jon’s are innovating with products like microwaveable salmon bowls, showcasing the trend toward convenient, high-quality frozen meals made possible by advancements in processing and packaging technologies. These innovations reflect the ongoing technological evolution that is shaping the frozen seafood industry.

Recent Acquisitions and Mergers Driving Growth in the Frozen Seafood Market

• Acquisitions in the frozen seafood industry are playing a key role in expanding market share, improving supply chain efficiencies, and diversifying product offerings. These strategic moves allow companies to enhance their global presence, tap into new technologies, and strengthen their sustainability efforts. Moreover, acquisitions help businesses meet the growing consumer demand for high-quality seafood products.
• For example, in July 2024, Captain Fresh, a leading technology-driven seafood supply chain company in India, announced its acquisition of Koral, a Polish seafood producer and distributor specializing in salmon. This acquisition enables Captain Fresh to expand its global footprint and strengthen its presence in the premium seafood market, particularly in the salmon sector. This move aligns with the company’s strategy to broaden its portfolio and enhance its capabilities in the global seafood market.
• Mergers within the frozen seafood industry also focus on strategic goals such as expanding product offerings, optimizing supply chains, and increasing market penetration. These mergers prioritize improving operational efficiency and gaining access to new technologies, while also reinforcing sustainability initiatives to meet rising consumer demand for diverse, premium seafood options.
• An example of such a merger is the September 2023 union of Mark Foods and Arista Seafood. The merger created a major player in the frozen seafood sector, with both companies aiming to enhance their product ranges, streamline supply chains, and extend their market presence. This merger boosts their position in the global seafood market, particularly in the frozen segment, allowing them to better cater to customer demands for premium, sustainable seafood products.

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Recent Developments in the Frozen Seafood Market

As the market expands, several companies are making notable strides with product launches and expansions, contributing to its dynamic nature.

• Young’s Seafood (UK): In April 2025, Young’s Seafood, one of the UK’s leading seafood brands, introduced two new frozen breaded fish fillets Young’s Breaded Fish with Flavour – Garlic & Herb and Young’s Breaded Fish with Flavour – Paprika & Pepper. These new offerings aim to invigorate the breaded fish segment and appeal to flavor-seeking consumers. This launch reflects a broader trend of developing innovative seafood products to meet changing consumer tastes.
• Scott & Jon’s (USA): In May 2025, Scott & Jon’s, a Maine-based brand known for its health-oriented frozen seafood meals, expanded its product lineup with three new entrees: Baja Fish Taco, Lemon Butter Dill Salmon, and Cajun Style Shrimp Alfredo. These new products emphasize health-conscious, flavorful options that align with growing trends toward clean, convenient meals.
• Birds Eye (UK): March 2025 saw Birds Eye introducing a new line of fish products under the “Captain’s Discoveries” brand. This line emphasizes global flavors, with four new items and two rebranded existing products. One of the standout offerings is the Tortilla Crumb Fish Fillets, which take inspiration from Mexican cuisine. Birds Eye’s move highlights the rising demand for unique, culturally inspired frozen seafood options.

Frozen Seafood Market Top Key Players

Several companies dominate the global frozen seafood market, thanks to their extensive product offerings, sustainable practices, and innovation in production and distribution. These key players include:

• Thai Union Group (Thailand): Thai Union is a global leader in the frozen seafood market, with a broad product portfolio encompassing tuna, salmon, shrimp, and other seafood. The company markets its products under well-known brands and private labels, ensuring a diverse range of options for global consumers.
• Maruha Nichiro Corporation (Japan): With a complete value chain from fishing and aquaculture to processing and distribution, Maruha Nichiro is one of the largest seafood companies globally. It operates across 74 group firms in Japan and 78 international locations, allowing for efficient global distribution.
• High Liner Foods (Canada): Known for its value-added frozen seafood products, High Liner Foods serves North America’s retail grocery stores, club stores, and foodservice providers. Its popular brands, such as High Liner, Fisher Boy, and Sea Cuisine, cater to consumers seeking convenient and quality frozen seafood.
• Pescanova S.A. (Spain): Pescanova is a vertically integrated multinational company offering a variety of frozen fish and shellfish, such as hake, squid, and shrimp. Its commitment to sustainability is reflected in its practices, including sourcing from its own aquaculture farms.

Other Key Players of Frozen Seafood Market

• Pacific Seafood Group (USA)
• Dongwon Industries (South Korea)
• New England Seafood International (USA)
• Austevoll Seafood ASA (Norway)
• Nippon Suisan Kaisha (Japan)
• Grupo Calvo (Spain)
• Seafood Holdings Ltd. (UK)
• Parlevliet & Van der Plas (Netherlands)
• Royal Greenland (Greenland)
• Icelandic Group (Iceland)
• Ocean Beauty Seafoods (USA)

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Market Segmentation

The frozen seafood market can be divided into several segments, each playing a critical role in its growth and evolution:

By Product Type

• Frozen Fish (Salmon, Cod, Tuna, etc.): The demand for frozen fish, especially salmon, cod, and tuna, remains strong due to their versatility and high nutritional value.
• Frozen Shrimp & Prawns: Shrimp and prawns are among the most popular frozen seafood products, offering a wide range of applications, from simple snacks to elaborate seafood dishes.
• Frozen Crab & Lobster: While more niche, these premium frozen seafood items are in demand, particularly in regions where seafood delicacies are popular.
• Frozen Mollusks (Squid, Clams, Mussels, Oysters): Mollusks like squid and clams are increasingly sought after for their unique textures and flavors.
• Ready-to-Cook / Processed Seafood (Breaded, Marinated, Frozen Meals): The rising demand for convenience is driving the popularity of ready-to-cook seafood products, which require minimal preparation time.

By Species

• Salmon, Tuna, Cod, Shrimp/Prawns, Crab, Lobster, Squid/Octopus: These species dominate the market, each catering to different consumer preferences and regional tastes.

By Distribution Channel

• Supermarkets / Hypermarkets: These traditional retail outlets continue to be the primary source for frozen seafood purchases.
• Specialty Seafood Stores: Specialty seafood retailers are rising in popularity, offering niche products and higher-end selections.
• Online/E-commerce Platforms: E-commerce is rapidly gaining ground as a convenient shopping option for frozen seafood.
• Foodservice (Restaurants, Hotels, Catering): Foodservice providers are key buyers of bulk frozen seafood products.
• Wholesale Markets: Wholesale markets remain crucial for large-scale distribution, especially for foodservice establishments.

By End-User

• Household Consumers: Frozen seafood is a popular choice among households due to its convenience and health benefits.
• Foodservice / Hospitality Industry: The foodservice sector is a major consumer of frozen seafood, requiring large volumes for restaurant menus.
• Institutional Buyers (Schools, Hospitals): Frozen seafood is increasingly being used in institutional kitchens, providing a nutritious, cost-effective option.

Regional Market

The frozen seafood market is growing across various regions, with each region exhibiting distinct trends and preferences:

• North America: The North American market is driven by rising demand for convenient, healthy seafood options, with the U.S. being the largest market.
• Europe: Europe is one of the largest consumers of frozen seafood, with the UK, Spain, and France contributing significantly to the demand.
• Asia Pacific: The Asia Pacific market is expanding rapidly, fueled by increased seafood consumption, particularly in China and Japan.
• Middle East and Africa (MEA): While still developing, the MEA market is witnessing growth due to rising disposable incomes and changing dietary preferences.
• Latin America: Latin America is gradually becoming a significant player in the frozen seafood market, with countries like Brazil and Argentina seeing increased consumption.

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Future Outlook

The global frozen seafood market is poised for substantial growth over the next decade, driven by health trends, convenience, sustainability, and technological advancements in freezing and packaging. Companies are increasingly diversifying their product offerings to cater to evolving consumer tastes and preferences, such as the incorporation of global flavors and health-oriented meals. As consumer demand for frozen seafood continues to rise, the market will remain an essential segment of the global food industry.

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