In a recent study conducted by Ifop for Ouest France, it has been revealed that while seafood remains a cherished part of French cuisine, affordability continues to influence consumption patterns significantly. Shrimp, along with tuna and salmon, ranks among the top choices for seafood enthusiasts, largely due to their competitive pricing.

Pricing Pressures and Consumer Behavior

According to the findings, 71% of respondents cite price as the primary reason for not increasing their seafood consumption, up from 67% in the previous year. This trend underscores a growing budgetary constraint among French households when it comes to purchasing seafood products.

Despite a preference for French seafood quality, the most consumed species like salmon, tuna, and shrimp are predominantly imported. This reliance on imports is largely driven by cost considerations.

Quality Concerns Remain Paramount

Interestingly, despite the cost constraints, a significant majority (81%) of French consumers believe that locally sourced seafood offers superior quality. This sentiment is reflected in purchasing habits, with 55% of shoppers preferring to buy their fish from fishmongers or supermarket seafood sections, albeit a slight decrease from previous years.

The study also reveals a notable disparity in seafood consumption across different age groups. Elderly individuals, particularly those aged 65 and above, constitute a significant portion of regular seafood consumers, with 57% enjoying fish once or twice weekly. In contrast, younger demographics, such as those aged 18 to 24, exhibit lower engagement with seafood, with only 27% adhering to the recommended weekly intake.

Balancing Nutrition and Affordability

Despite economic challenges affecting seafood prices, the nutritional benefits of seafood, including shrimp, remain widely acknowledged. Agencies like the National Food Safety Agency advocate for regular seafood consumption due to its valuable nutritional qualities, including omega-3 fatty acids found in oily fish like salmon and mackerel.