Canned Tuna and Sardines Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Types (Canned Tuna, Canned Sardines), By Applications Covered (Supermarkets and Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Online Retailers, Others), Regional Insights and Forecast to 2033

Canned Tuna and Sardines Market Size

The Canned Tuna and Sardines Market was valued at approximately USD 12,990.53 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 13,730.99 million in 2025, growing to USD 21,394.48 million by 2033, reflecting significant growth during the forecast period from 2025 to 2033.

The U.S. canned tuna and sardines market holds a significant share, driven by high consumer demand for convenient, affordable, and nutritious foods. Canned tuna is particularly popular, making up a large portion of the market.

The global canned tuna and sardines market is experiencing significant growth, valued at approximately 25% of the global seafood market in 2024. This market is projected to grow by over 40% by 2033, reflecting substantial expansion during the forecast period. The primary drivers of this growth include a 30% increase in consumer demand for protein-rich foods, a 20% rise in the popularity of ready-to-eat meals, and a growing consumer awareness about the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, which is contributing to a 25% increase in market adoption. Canned tuna holds the largest share at 60%, followed by canned sardines at 35%, with the latter growing due to their nutritional benefits, accounting for a 15% increase in consumer interest and their versatility in various cuisines.

Canned Tuna and Sardines Market Trends

The canned tuna and sardines market is witnessing several key trends. The growing consumer shift toward healthier eating is one of the main factors driving the market. Products that are rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, like canned tuna and sardines, are expected to continue seeing increased demand. Currently, the market share of canned tuna products is over 60%, with sardines accounting for nearly 35%. The growing focus on sustainability is also a significant trend, with consumers preferring sustainably sourced products. This trend is seen in the increasing number of brands offering eco-friendly, responsibly sourced seafood. Additionally, the rise in online retailing, which now accounts for over 15% of total sales, is revolutionizing the distribution channels. The convenience of online shopping has made it easier for consumers to access a wider range of canned seafood products. With growing demand for both premium and ready-to-eat canned products, supermarkets and hypermarkets continue to dominate the distribution channels, contributing to more than 50% of the market share.

Canned Tuna and Sardines Market Dynamics

The canned tuna and sardines market is shaped by a number of key dynamics. Drivers include the rising consumer demand for convenient, healthy food options, with more than 55% of consumers opting for canned seafood due to its nutritional benefits, affordability, and long shelf life. Additionally, the growing awareness of the environmental impact of fishing has led to increased demand for sustainably sourced products, boosting the market share of ethically sourced canned tuna and sardines by around 20%. Restraints in the market include concerns related to overfishing, with reports highlighting that overfishing has impacted the availability of certain species of tuna and sardines, posing challenges for producers. Opportunities in the market are abundant, particularly in emerging markets where rising disposable incomes are driving demand for convenient and nutritious meal options. Online retail sales, accounting for more than 15% of the market, continue to show significant growth potential. However, challenges such as fluctuating raw material prices and environmental regulations affecting the fishing industry pose ongoing risks to the stability and profitability of the market. Despite these challenges, the overall outlook remains positive, driven by innovation in product offerings and increased consumer focus on health and sustainability.

DRIVER

"Growing Consumer Demand for Healthy, Convenient Foods"

The growing demand for healthier and more convenient food options is a significant driver of the canned tuna and sardines market. With consumers becoming more health-conscious, the demand for high-protein, omega-3-rich foods has surged. Canned tuna, which holds a market share of over 60%, is a popular source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, contributing to its growing consumption. Additionally, canned sardines, which make up approximately 35% of the market, are gaining traction due to their nutritional benefits, including high levels of calcium and vitamin D. The convenience of ready-to-eat meals is also a driving factor, as busy consumers opt for easy-to-prepare and long-lasting products, boosting the market further.

RESTRAINTS

"Environmental Concerns and Overfishing"

Overfishing is one of the major restraints in the canned tuna and sardines market. As fishing stocks deplete due to unsustainable practices, concerns about the environmental impact of overfishing have grown. This has led to pressure on producers to adopt more sustainable sourcing practices, with over 40% of tuna stocks being affected by overfishing. Moreover, the increasing costs associated with sourcing sustainably caught tuna and sardines have also contributed to rising production costs, impacting overall market profitability. These environmental and cost-related issues pose significant challenges to the market, especially as consumer demand for sustainable products continues to rise.

OPPORTUNITY

"Expansion in Emerging Markets and Online Retail Channels"

There is a growing opportunity in the canned tuna and sardines market, especially in emerging markets where increasing urbanization and rising disposable incomes are driving demand for affordable, healthy food options. Over 15% of the market’s growth is expected to come from these regions, particularly in Asia-Pacific, where the consumption of canned seafood is on the rise due to changing dietary habits. Additionally, the expansion of online retail platforms, now accounting for over 15% of total sales, presents another significant opportunity. Consumers are increasingly purchasing canned tuna and sardines online for convenience, and this trend is expected to continue growing as e-commerce becomes more integrated into daily shopping habits.

CHALLENGE

"Sustainability and Regulatory Challenges in Fishing Practices"

Sustainability and the growing number of regulations in the fishing industry pose significant challenges to the canned tuna and sardines market. More than 40% of the market is facing challenges related to sustainable sourcing practices and the rising costs of ensuring that products are ethically sourced. Overfishing and the depletion of fish stocks are critical issues that affect the availability of key species like tuna and sardines. Furthermore, increasing regulations and the push for certifications from organizations such as the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) add to the operational costs for producers. As regulations become more stringent, meeting these standards could impact market growth and profitability.

Segmentation Analysis

The canned tuna and sardines market is segmented based on type and application. By type, the market is divided into canned tuna and canned sardines, with canned tuna holding a significant share of over 60%. Canned sardines, while a smaller segment, are growing steadily due to their nutritional benefits and the increasing popularity of sustainable seafood. By application, the market is categorized into supermarkets and hypermarkets, convenience stores, online retailers, and others. Supermarkets and hypermarkets dominate the distribution channels, accounting for more than 50% of the market share. The rise of online retailing is also noteworthy, with online platforms now contributing to around 15% of sales. These distribution channels are crucial to the overall market dynamics and expansion.

By Type

• Canned Tuna: Canned tuna dominates the market, with more than 60% of the total market share. It remains the preferred choice for consumers due to its versatility, affordability, and high protein content. Canned tuna is widely used in sandwiches, salads, and casseroles, making it a staple in many households worldwide. The preference for canned tuna is particularly high in North America and Europe, where it accounts for a large portion of seafood consumption. The convenience and long shelf life of canned tuna contribute significantly to its popularity, with demand remaining strong across various consumer segments, from budget-conscious buyers to premium product consumers seeking higher-quality offerings.

• Canned Sardines: Canned sardines, which hold approximately 35% of the market share, are gaining popularity due to their numerous health benefits. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins like vitamin D and calcium, canned sardines are increasingly favored by health-conscious consumers. The market for canned sardines is experiencing growth due to rising awareness of their nutritional value and the sustainability of sardine fishing. While the segment is smaller than canned tuna, it is showing strong growth, particularly in regions like Europe and Asia-Pacific, where consumers are integrating sardines into traditional dishes. Innovations in product offerings, such as flavored and premium sardine options, are also driving the segment’s expansion.

By Application

• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets: Supermarkets and hypermarkets are the largest distribution channels for canned tuna and sardines, accounting for over 50% of total market sales. These retail outlets offer a wide range of canned seafood products, making them the primary point of purchase for consumers. The convenience of shopping at large retail chains, along with the variety of canned seafood available, drives consumer preference for this channel. Supermarkets and hypermarkets cater to both budget-conscious consumers and those seeking premium, specialty products. The availability of these products in convenient locations across the globe supports their dominance in the market.

• Convenience Stores: Convenience stores represent an important distribution channel, contributing to approximately 20% of the market share. The demand for canned tuna and sardines in convenience stores is driven by consumers seeking quick and accessible food options. Canned seafood is often purchased by individuals on-the-go, looking for easy-to-prepare meals or snacks. As convenience stores continue to expand their food offerings, the availability of canned seafood in these outlets is expected to increase, contributing to further market growth.

• Online Retailers: Online retailers have seen a rapid rise in market share, currently accounting for around 15% of total sales in the canned tuna and sardines market. The convenience of purchasing food products online, combined with the growing popularity of e-commerce, has made this distribution channel increasingly important. Online platforms provide a wider selection of canned seafood products, including specialty and premium offerings, catering to a broad consumer base. The ease of access and the ability to shop from home are key factors driving the growing popularity of online retail for canned tuna and sardines.

• Others: The "Others" segment, including specialty stores and foodservice providers, contributes approximately 15% to the market share. While smaller than the major retail channels, these outlets serve a crucial role by offering unique or high-end canned seafood products. These distribution channels cater to consumers seeking specialty items or gourmet products that are not available in supermarkets or convenience stores. Additionally, foodservice providers, such as restaurants and cafes, often use canned tuna and sardines in their menus, contributing to the growth of this segment.

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Regional Outlook

The global canned tuna and sardines market shows diverse regional dynamics influenced by cultural preferences, economic conditions, and growing demand for convenient, nutritious food options. North America and Europe are currently the largest markets, driven by high consumer demand for canned seafood products. In contrast, Asia-Pacific is experiencing rapid growth, fueled by changing dietary habits and increased urbanization. The Middle East and Africa, although smaller in market share, are showing promising growth potential due to rising disposable incomes and shifting consumer behavior toward canned seafood. The regional distribution of the market reflects varying consumer preferences, with different types of canned products gaining traction depending on the region.

North America

North America holds a dominant share of the global canned tuna and sardines market, accounting for over 40% of total sales. The United States, in particular, is a major contributor to this share, where canned tuna is widely consumed due to its versatility and affordability. Approximately 70% of the canned seafood market in North America is dominated by canned tuna, while canned sardines represent a smaller portion of the market. The growing health-conscious consumer base, with an increased preference for omega-3-rich foods, supports the steady demand for canned tuna and sardines. Supermarkets and hypermarkets remain the leading distribution channels in North America, followed by convenience stores and online retail platforms.

Europe

Europe represents a significant portion of the canned tuna and sardines market, with over 30% of global sales. The demand for canned sardines is particularly strong in Mediterranean countries, where sardines are a traditional food staple. Spain and Portugal are major consumers, with canned sardines making up a large share of their seafood consumption. While canned tuna is also widely consumed across Europe, it holds a smaller market share compared to canned sardines. Retail sales through supermarkets and hypermarkets account for more than 50% of the market, followed by a growing share from online retailers. The focus on sustainability in European markets has also led to the increased demand for ethically sourced canned seafood products.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific is emerging as a rapidly growing market for canned tuna and sardines, accounting for over 20% of global sales. Countries like Japan, South Korea, and China have seen increasing demand for canned seafood products, driven by changing dietary habits and the rising popularity of western-style convenience foods. The increasing urbanization and disposable income in countries like India and Southeast Asian nations are further fueling market growth. Canned tuna is particularly popular in Japan, while sardines are growing in demand in countries like Indonesia and the Philippines. Supermarkets and hypermarkets are the dominant distribution channels, but the rising trend of online retail platforms in Asia-Pacific is also contributing to market expansion.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East and Africa (MEA) region accounts for around 5% of the global canned tuna and sardines market. While smaller in size compared to other regions, the MEA market is witnessing steady growth due to changing consumer preferences and an increase in disposable incomes. In countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, canned tuna is increasingly popular due to its convenience and long shelf life, fitting well into busy lifestyles. Sardines are also gaining popularity, especially in the African market, where they are seen as an affordable and nutritious food source. Supermarkets and hypermarkets are the primary distribution channels, while online retail platforms are beginning to capture a more significant portion of the market.

List of Key Canned Tuna and Sardines Market Companies

• Dongwon
• Bumble Bee Foods
• Thai Union Group (TUF)
• Crown Prince, Inc.
• Natural Sea
• Wild Planet
• American Tuna
• Century Pacific Food
• Frinsa del Noroeste
• Hagoromo
• Bolton Group
• Grupo Calvo
• Camil Alimentos
• Goody
• Al Alali

The two top companies in the canned tuna and sardines market with the highest share 

• Dongwon - Holding approximately 25% of the market share.
• Thai Union Group (TUF) - Capturing around 20% of the market share.

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The canned tuna and sardines market offers numerous investment opportunities driven by increasing demand for convenient, affordable, and healthy food options. With global sales rising, particularly in emerging markets, investments are expected to grow substantially. North America and Europe continue to dominate, contributing to over 60% of the global market, but Asia-Pacific is rapidly emerging as a high-growth region. As urbanization increases and disposable incomes rise, more consumers in Asia-Pacific are seeking convenient and protein-rich food, offering a growth potential of more than 20% in the next decade. Moreover, sustainable sourcing is a key investment trend, with an increasing number of companies adopting eco-friendly practices to appeal to environmentally-conscious consumers. Approximately 30% of the market’s growth is attributed to the rising demand for sustainably sourced seafood. Additionally, innovations in packaging, such as BPA-free cans and eco-friendly materials, present further investment potential. The continued growth of online retail channels, contributing to over 15% of total sales, is another opportunity, especially in markets where e-commerce adoption is growing rapidly. 

New Products Development

New product development in the canned tuna and sardines market is focused on catering to the increasing demand for convenience, sustainability, and health-conscious food choices. The launch of premium canned products with added flavors, organic ingredients, and sustainable sourcing has been a notable trend. For example, more than 25% of recent product developments have focused on creating higher-quality canned tuna and sardines with added-value benefits, such as omega-3 enriched options. The market is also seeing a rise in specialty products, such as smoked and flavored tuna, which appeal to consumers seeking unique culinary experiences. Additionally, advancements in packaging technology are addressing consumer concerns about sustainability. Eco-friendly packaging, including recyclable materials and BPA-free cans, has been integrated into more than 30% of new product lines. Health-focused innovations, such as reduced sodium and sugar varieties, are also gaining traction. Over 20% of the new products launched in 2023 and 2024 are designed to meet growing consumer demand for healthier, low-sodium, and low-fat options. These product innovations are crucial in attracting the growing health-conscious consumer segment, while sustainable packaging aligns with the increasing consumer preference for environmentally friendly products.

Recent Developments by Manufacturers in Canned Tuna and Sardines Market 

• Dongwon: In 2023, Dongwon launched a new line of sustainably sourced canned tuna, ensuring that 40% of its product line is certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), aligning with growing consumer demand for eco-friendly products.
• Bumble Bee Foods: Bumble Bee introduced a new range of premium flavored canned sardines in 2024, offering unique flavor profiles such as lemon herb and spicy chipotle, targeting health-conscious and adventurous consumers.
• Thai Union Group (TUF): Thai Union launched an upgraded packaging design for its canned tuna in 2024, focusing on BPA-free materials and reducing its carbon footprint, reflecting its commitment to sustainability.
• Crown Prince, Inc.: In 2023, Crown Prince expanded its product line to include organic canned sardines, responding to consumer demand for certified organic seafood options and increasing its market presence in the premium segment.
• Wild Planet: Wild Planet introduced a new premium line of canned tuna with added omega-3 fatty acids, catering to health-conscious consumers looking for additional nutritional benefits in their canned seafood products.

Report Coverage of Canned Tuna and Sardines Market

The report on the canned tuna and sardines market provides a detailed analysis of market size, share, growth trends, and forecasts up to 2033. The market is categorized by types, including canned tuna and canned sardines, and covers various applications, including supermarkets and hypermarkets, convenience stores, online retailers, and other distribution channels. Canned tuna dominates the market, holding over 60% of the market share, followed by canned sardines at around 35%. In terms of regional insights, North America leads with more than 40% of global market share, with Europe and Asia-Pacific also showing substantial growth. The market is driven by increasing consumer demand for convenient, healthy food options, with a rising preference for sustainably sourced products. The report highlights key trends such as the growing shift toward eco-friendly packaging and the expansion of online retail channels. It also covers the competitive landscape, profiling major players like Dongwon, Bumble Bee Foods, and Thai Union Group.