Global Plant-Based Fish Market - 2025-2032

Plant-Based Fish Market Size

Plant-Based Fish Market Size reached US$ 193.12 million in 2024 and is expected to reach US$ 313.19 million by 2032, growing with a CAGR of 6.23% during the forecast period 2025-2032.

The global plant-based fish market is emerging as a sustainable alternative to conventional seafood in response to overfishing, marine degradation, and rising environmental regulations. According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), nearly 90% of global marine fish stocks are fully exploited or overfished, pushing consumers and companies to seek sustainable substitutes.

Additionally, the FDA’s CFSAN (Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition) issued clarity on labeling plant-based seafood analogs in 2022, aiding product transparency and consumer acceptance. In Canada, the government’s Protein Industries Supercluster program has pledged over US$ 215.67 million to alternative protein innovation, including marine analogs. These developments collectively support the rapid commercialization and market growth of plant-based fish as a viable, regulated, and sustainable seafood alternative.

Plant-based Fish Market Trend

A key trend is the emergence of whole-cut and 3D-printed plant-based seafood products, driven by tech-enabled startups and sustainability mandates. The EU Horizon initiative has allocated over US$ 11.24 million to plant-based protein development, including seafood analogs. Meanwhile, US-based Good Catch Foods and Revo Foods (Austria) are expanding manufacturing following increased demand, supported by FDA and USDA labeling standardizations. These advancements highlight a shift from simple analogs to advanced, texture-rich seafood alternatives.

Plant-based Fish Market Dynamics

Growing Plant-Based Fish Market with a Great Focus on Veganism

The growing focus on veganism is significantly driving the global plant-based fish market. According to the USDA, plant-based food sales in the US rose by over 6% in 2023, with seafood alternatives showing notable momentum. Vegan dietary adoption is rising across North America and Europe, supported by government-backed nutritional initiatives and climate action goals. This shift is fueling innovation and consumer demand for sustainable fish substitutes.

Limited Consumer Awareness and Acceptance of Plant-Based Seafood Alternatives

Limited consumer awareness and acceptance remain significant restraints in the global plant-based fish market. Despite increasing concerns over overfishing, only 12% of US consumers reported trying plant-based seafood, according to a 2023 USDA-supported study. A lack of familiarity with ingredients, taste expectations, and cooking methods continues to hinder widespread adoption.

Government dietary guidelines, such as those from Health Canada and the US Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee, emphasize fish consumption but provide limited direction on plant-based seafood alternatives. This gap in education and promotion contributes to consumer hesitation. Additionally, limited visibility of plant-based fish products in mainstream retail channels curbs trial rates. Until public awareness campaigns and labeling clarity improve, the market may face adoption challenges despite sustainability benefits.

Plant-based Fish Market Segment Analysis

The global plant-based fish market is segmented based on product type, source, packaging type, distribution channel and region.

Plant-based Fish Fillets Segment Driving Plant-based Fish Market

The demand for plant-based fish fillets is growing globally as consumers seek healthier and more sustainable seafood alternatives. According to the UN FAO, nearly 90% of the world’s marine fish stocks are fully exploited or overfished, prompting a shift toward alternative protein sources. Governments in Europe and North America are encouraging sustainable food innovations through funding and policy support, such as the EU’s Horizon Europe program.

Moreover, increased awareness of microplastic and contaminant exposure in conventional fish is pushing consumers toward cleaner plant-based fillet options. This trend is accelerating the adoption of plant-based fish fillets in both retail and food service sectors.

Plant-based Fish Market Geographical Share

Demand for Plant-based Fish Demand in North America

Demand for plant-based fish in North America is rising due to health, sustainability, and dietary preference shifts. According to the USDA, over 12% of US adults now follow plant-forward or flexitarian diets, driving interest in seafood alternatives. The FDA’s advisories on mercury in certain fish have also encouraged consumers to seek safer, plant-based options.

Additionally, NOAA reports increased concerns over depleted fish stocks and ocean health, fueling interest in sustainable protein alternatives. This growing awareness supports the expanding market for plant-based fish products across the US and Canada.

Sustainability Analysis

The sustainability profile of the plant-based fish market aligns strongly with global marine conservation goals. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), over 34% of global fish stocks are overfished, highlighting the urgency for alternative protein sources. Plant-based fish reduces reliance on wild fisheries, helping ease pressure on ocean ecosystems. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also emphasizes plant-based diets as a means to lower greenhouse gas emissions from food systems. Thus, plant-based fish emerges as a low-impact, sustainable option to meet growing seafood demand.

Plant-based Fish Market Major Players

The major global players in the market include Nestlé S.A., Good Catch Foods LLC, Ocean Hugger Foods Inc., The Plant-Based Seafood Co., Sophie’s Kitchen Inc., New Wave Foods Inc., Hooked Foods AB, Thai Union Group PCL, Revo Foods GmbH, and Algama Foods SAS.

Key Developments

• In October 2023, Nestlé launched- a range of plant-based alternatives to white fish. The products which include alternatives to breaded fish fillets, nuggets, and fingers, stand out for their strong nutrition credentials, as well as their great taste and texture that is close to white fish. They are also certified vegan.

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Target Audience 2024

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