While consumers in some regions may have historically associated canned fish with times of economic deprivation, in fish- loving southern Europe canned seafood has always been considered a true delicacy. It is understood that rather than processing low-quality fish parts, artisan producers, typically family-owned businesses, use their high-quality fish yields, carefully clean the products, cook them to perfection and preserve them at the peak of freshness. You could say that in these countries, canned seafood has always been perceived as a gourmet preparation, sometimes of even higher quality than fresh.

This regional dynamic quickly developed during the pandemic into a global trend. Canned fish sales boomed last year, as the products grabbed the attention of customers during the lockdown period. After many decades of stagnation, a recent report from Mordor Intelligence highlighted that the canned seafood market will reach Us$30bn by value in 2025 with a CAGR of 5 per cent. Let's look at the reasons behind these numbers.

Firstly, consumers were forced to change shopping, eating, and cooking habits. Limited access to the fresh market furthered the need to stock durable goods in the pantry. Cans are perfect for online ordering and warehousing. And, cooking a full meal between Zoom or Teams meetings was almost impossible, or me anyway, so replacing it with convenient nutritious food was a great idea.

Secondly, healthy eating habits are spreading. Consumers are increasingly looking into reducing their red meat consumption and seeking out quality food free of preservatives or unpleasant residues of other substances. Canned fish and shellfish are regarded as true 'organic food', and as an extraordinary source of easily digestible proteins such as Omega 3 fatty acids and vitamins B12, D and A. Even of calcium, if we include the little bones of some species such as sardines and anchovies.

Thirdly, stereotypical millennials are experts in diet creativity, making a meal a unique experience with the least effort. This starts by appreciating the cool and chic shape of a lithographed metal can by enjoying drained tuna, sardine or mackerel on top of a mix of avocado, green salad and other healthy foods.

Finally, not only cans, but also canned seafood is becoming more and more sustainable. Top brands increasingly put more products on the market that are MSC certified while in parallel, fishing companies are increasing the transparency of their fishing methods and product traceability. The same applies to the sophisticated fish-farming techniques encouraged by governments all around.

Driving this growth has much to do with the packaging itself. As we know, cans are infinitely recyclable, light, robust, stackable, affordable and help to reduce food waste: canned seafood has a shelf life of up to five years. Cans are the optimum packaging for enhancing consumer experiences. Eye-catching designs including different sizes and shapes as well as powerful messages regarding the nutritious content, sustainability and traceability allow the seafood can to establish a direct interaction with consumers.

As a result of its commitment to provide differentiated, sustainable and innovative products, Actega is currently the sole supplier of comprehensive solutions for the seafood can, including fully-compliant inks to enhance decoration, a wide range of protective and decorative coatings based on multiple chemistries and, last but not least, a series of reliable water-based sealants to provide a hermitic seal and complete safety.

 Now it's time for a glass of cool white wine accompanied by some delicious canned seafood. Anyone want to join in?

Article from: The Canmaker