New report reveals the most consumed seafood species in the United States

Shrimp remains the top-consumed seafood species in the United States, according to the latest figures released by the National Fisheries Institute (NFI).

In its "top ten" list for 2022, published this week, the NFI found that Americans consumed 19.7 pounds (8.9 kilos) of seafood per capita - a decline from 0.8 pounds in 2021.

The most popular species, shrimp, itself saw a slight decline compared with the previous year, at 5.5 pounds per capita. Salmon was the second-most popular species on US dinner plates, at 3.22 pounds per capita in 2022, again a slight decrease compared with 2021.

Canned tuna remains in third place, illustrating, according to the NFI, "a continuation of the 'tinned fish' craze featuring increases in consumption of canned tuna, canned shellfish and canned sardines". 

Pangasius and cod saw gains in consumption, while tilapia, catfish and Alaska Pollock remained stable compared with the previous year, and oysters made the top ten list for the first time ever, ranked 10th, at 0.24 pounds per capita.

“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 in a press release.

“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," Barry explained.

The species covered in the NFI Top 10 List account for 79% of total seafood consumption, indicating that "Americans are continuing to diversify their seafood experiences", the NFI said.