Cost-conscious consumers turn to frozen and prepared seafood.
Norwegian seafood consumption has dropped by three kilograms per person over the past decade, according to a new report published by the Norwegian Seafood Council.
Figures from Flesland Market Information show that average annual consumption fell from 21.5 kg in 2015 to just over 18 kg in 2024 – a decline of nearly 12%. The reduction is largely attributed to rising seafood prices, which increased 63% over the same period, outpacing both meat and sugar price inflation.
“Consumers face many influences, but price increases are the main reason for the downward trend,” said Trym Eidem Gundersen, Nordic Director at the Seafood Council. “Yet 70% of Norwegians still say they want to eat more seafood.”
Despite the domestic decline, Norway remains among the highest per capita seafood consumers globally, ranking 12th according to FAO statistics, which include total production and import data.
Salmon, trout and cod remain popular, though retail sales of fresh fillets have dropped sharply. Between 2018 and 2024, the average price of fresh trout fillet rose 76%, fresh cod fillet 60%, and fresh salmon fillet 45% (NielsenIQ). This has driven a shift toward more processed and frozen options, including fish cakes and fish gratin.
Chicken consumption continues to rise and now nearly matches fish as Norway’s second most popular protein after meat, particularly among younger consumers.
The Seafood Council hopes targeted marketing and nutritional messaging can reverse the trend, especially among families and those under 34, who currently consume the least seafood.
The full Fiskemarked report is available to Norwegian seafood exporters and producers.