The Impact of Health & Wellness Trend on Seafood Consumption
Most of us know that seafood consumption is a vital part of a healthy diet.
What many of us don’t know is that the seafood industry is benefiting from a global movement towards healthy living. More and more consumers are turning to this produce, as they become more conscious of their mealtime decisions.
In fact, a recent Norwegian Seafood survey recommends that sellers “tap into the health and wellness wave that has seen strong growth and increasing attention”.
The survey also cites the health benefits available to those who eat seafood. It reveals that these benefits are already a driving force behind the demand for the cuisine.
In the article below, we examine the benefits of seafood consumption and how health and wellness have changed the consumer demand associated with the foodstuff. We also look at the potential opportunities for those who produce and sell these items.
Seafood Consumption Benefits
Nutrients
If you are looking for nutrients at mealtime, then there are very few options that are as beneficial as seafood.
Are trying to up your intake of vitamin A, B, and even D? Then more seafood consumption could be the answer for you!
Brain Benefits
The omega-3s in seafood are proven to give a number of benefits to your brain.
These fats are thought to reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline, as well as provide a huge number of other health benefits.
A Healthy Heart
Generally speaking, seafood is low in saturated fat. When eaten as part of a balanced diet, it can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Reduces Joint Pain
The likes of salmon, tuna, and sardines contain levels of omega-3 and vitamin D and have been proven to reduce joint pain over time as part of a healthy diet.
Experts claim that the right seafood options around mealtime can “decrease joint swelling and pain”.
Better Skin
Of course, when looking after your skin, nothing beats wearing sunscreen, but the benefits of eating seafood is widely known. Once again, it is the omega-3s and vitamin Ds that are doing the heavy lifting in this instance.
Opportunities Going Forward
Well-designed campaigns and further education for consumers can drive demand for seafood, but there is still plenty of room for growth for producers and sellers hoping to make the most of the health and wellness market.
For instance, according to the Norwegian Seafood Council, on average, seafood only accounts for six percent of a person’s protein intake.
With a growing market for protein-related products for gym-goers, as well as a rise in nutritional education around wellness, the opportunities for seafood producers are plentiful.
Almost 90% of respondents said that it is important that the seafood products they buy are healthy.
The Norwegian Seafood Council also discussed the future of this area, stating: “The trend is not only in the Western world. As the population ages and chronic diseases continue to rise, a healthier lifestyle is becoming increasingly important.”
Thus, this is a market that already exists, but also one where the potential is endless.
