FSA named the advantages of frozen seafood

Up to a fifth of buyers (depending on the country of residence) switch from  fresh fish to frozen, optimizing costs. These are the data of the Ipsos study based on the results of 2024, which was studied by the Fishery Shipowners Association (FSA). 

FSA notes at least three serious advantages beyond price:

Freshness

This is one of the key criteria when choosing food products. In the case of perishable goods, which include fish, this is especially important.

The shelf life of chilled fish is only a few days from the date of catch, and a significant part of this period is spent on delivery. In the case of deliveries from the Far East, which accounts for 80% of Russian catches, there is no point in talking about keeping the fish chilled at all. Freezing preserves freshness for a long time. 

The best freezing option is single-frozen directly in the catch area. As a rule, “frozen at sea” is written on the packaging of such fish products. The most modern technologies for processing fish on board and quick freezing of finished products from it are used on new vessels, including the vessels of FSA member companies.

Texture

Single freezing allows you to preserve the structure of the fish meat, which is important for the taste of the product. When fish is defrosted and re-frozen, the ice crystals break down and then form again, which is detrimental to quality.

This can happen in stores when defrosted (i.e. defrosted) fish is sold chilled. To be on the safe side, it is better to buy frozen fish and defrost it yourself before cooking.

Benefits

Freezing for several hours after catching preserves not only the freshness and texture of the fish, but also its nutritional value - a rich set of healthy micro- and macroelements.

International experts predict an almost twofold growth of the frozen seafood market within ten years. According to estimates by Fact.MR, The Business Research Company (BRC) and Future Market Insights (FMI), which FSA has reviewed, the average annual growth rate will be 5.5-5.7%, according to estimates.

Analysts say the frozen seafood market is undergoing significant evolution thanks to advances in cold chain logistics, improved freezing technologies and a growing consumer appetite for protein-rich, fast-cooking foods.

To preserve the nutritional and flavor properties of fresh fish preserved by freezing, it is important to store it properly at home and then defrost it. 

• Store in the freezer at -18°C - within the expiration date indicated on the package. 

• To defrost, place the product in the refrigerator for several hours (for example, overnight). 

• Do not defrost fish under hot water or in the microwave. Do not refreeze fish.