Americans ate 15.8 pounds of seafood per capita in 2009, down slightly from 16 pounds in 2008 and just ten varieties made up more than 88 percent of that consumption. 

The National Fisheries Institute’s “Top Ten” list for 2009 reveals the top two spots remain occupied by Shrimp and Canned Tuna and that while Salmon, Alaska Pollock and Tilapia each saw an increase in consumption they maintained their spots. The only newcomer on the list was Pangasius. Flatfish dropped out of the top ten.

2008                                                                  2009

Total consumption increased by 45 million pounds, or about one per cent, however per capita consumption declined because of population growth. 

“From a public health perspective it’s imperative that Americans eat more fish,” said Jennifer McGuire, NFI’s registered dietician. “This is a message we expect to see front and centre when federal health experts release the new Dietary Guidelines for Americans this year - the familiar food pyramid programme. While we anticipate hearing a lot about eating less salt and not as much saturated fat, when it comes to seafood more is better.”