Canned Tuna Market Size, Share, and Trends 2024 to 2034

The global canned tuna market revenue was estimated at USD 32.23 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach over USD 43.99 billion by  2033, poised to grow at a CAGR of 3.11% over the forecast period 2024 to 2033.

Key Takeaways

• Europe led the global market with the highest market share of 41.70% in 2023.
• By Product Type, the flavored segment has held the largest market share in 2023.
• By Tuna Species, the skip jack segment captured the biggest revenue share of 61.60% in 2023.

Canned Tuna Market in Europe 2024 to 2033

The Europe canned tuna market size was valued at USD 13.44 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach around USD 18.13 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 2.99% from 2024 to 2033.

Europe led the canned tune market in 2023. Canned tuna has long been a well-liked and practical fish option in Europe. Because of its high protein and omega-3 fatty acid content, health-conscious consumers frequently prefer tuna. Several factors, including customer tastes, the state of the economy, and sustainability concerns, affect the market. A growing consciousness of sustainability and ethical fishing methods has affected consumer choices. The European canned tuna market has competition from major food corporations and seafood brands. Specific consumers have a preference for brands that emphasize environmental responsibility and sustainability. European consumers are becoming more interested in seafood supplied sustainably, especially tuna in cans. Several certification schemes, like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), have become more significant.

Market Overview

The market for tuna in cans is enormous and has grown steadily over time. The nutritional advantages, lengthy shelf life, and ease of use of tuna in a can are some of the factors driving this expansion. Consumer preferences for ready-to-eat and convenient seafood items have driven the demand for canned tuna. Because canned tuna has a high protein level and omega-3 fatty acids. Health-conscious consumers frequently choose it. Various canned tuna varieties, such as skipjack, yellowfin light tuna, and albacore white tuna, are usually available in the market. Because light tuna contains less mercury, it is frequently selected.

The canned tuna sector has begun to include sustainability as a critical consideration. Eco-friendly and sustainably sourced items are becoming more and more popular among consumers. Some businesses have implemented sustainable fishing certifications and procedures to satisfy customer demands. Supply chain dynamics and customer behavior may have been impacted by the COVID–19 pandemic. A possible benefit to the canned tuna business during lockdowns was increased demand for shelf-stable items. The canned tuna business is anticipated to keep expanding, emphasizing innovation and sustainability. A business that responds to customer concerns about product diversity, environmental effects, and sources may gain a competitive advantage.

Growth Factors

• The need for quick-to-eat food products is rising as the world's population increases, particularly in metropolitan areas. Because canned tuna is an easily accessible and shelf-stable protein source, it is ideally positioned to meet this need. In many areas, individuals with more disposable income can choose more upscale and practical food options, such as tuna in a can. Many consumers favor canned tuna due to its accessibility and price.
• Changes in eating habits, such as emphasizing wholesome and environmentally friendly foods, maybe a factor in the market expansion for canned tuna. Tuna is frequently regarded as a sustainable seafood choice compared to certain other fish kinds. 
• Advancements in packaging technology, like easily opened lids, eco-friendly materials, and portion-controlled packaging, can increase canned tuna's market appeal and convenience. 
• The globalization of food trade gives customers access to a wide range of goods from many geographical areas. This makes canned tuna varieties easier to get, satisfying a wide range of palates.

Canned Tuna Market Scope

Product Type Insights

The flavored segment holds the largest share of the canned tuna market. Traditional canned tuna is given a tasty twist by tuna products infused with herbs and spices, such as lemon pepper, garlic, dill, or various Mediterranean herbs. Customers who want a more robust flavor will find the distinct and smoky flavor that smoked tuna imparts to the fish appetizing. Tuna with sun-dried tomatoes and basil has a Mediterranean-style flavor profile that may appeal to anyone seeking a more upscale or unique choice. Adding spices or chili peppers to tuna appeals to customers who like a little kick to their food. Tuna infused with citrus tastes zesty and delicious, making it a favorite among people who prefer their food to be brighter and lighter.

Certain canned tuna products have extra flavor-infused oils or sauces added to improve the overall flavor. High-end canned tuna products, such as truffle-infused or exotic spice blends, are frequently accompanied by distinctive and superior flavor combinations. Asian-inspired tuna products like soy ginger or Thai chili offer a mix of flavors that appeal to a wide range of consumers.

End Use Insights

The B2C segment holds the largest share of the canned tuna market. Products containing canned tuna are frequently sold through various retail outlets, such as supermarkets, grocers, convenience stores, and internet retailers. These stores make it simple for customers to buy tuna in cans for home use. In the B2C market, knowing customer preferences is essential. This covers characteristics including preferred tuna species, various tastes, packaging sizes, sustainability methods, and health-related aspects. Canned tuna producers frequently spend money on branding and marketing techniques to raise awareness and cultivate a favorable reputation among consumers. This could be social media marketing, advertising campaigns, and highlighting the product's qualities, sustainability, and freshness.

Products from canned tuna include solid white albacore, chunk light tuna, flavored tuna, and tuna packed in oil, water, or extra herbs and spices. A wide selection of products makes it easier to accommodate various customer preferences. Packaging is essential in the business-to-consumer market. Producers should spend money on creative and environmentally friendly packaging to appeal to consumers who care about the environment. Clear and comprehensive labeling about certifications, sustainability initiatives, and nutritional content can also influence consumer decisions. The advent of e-commerce has impacted the market for canned tuna, as more and more customers choose to make their purchases online. Businesses can sell through third-party e-commerce platforms or direct-to-consumer (DTC) channels.

Sales Channel Insights

The direct segment holds the largest share of the canned tuna market. Many canned tuna manufacturers and brands have a website thanks to the growth of e-commerce. Using their websites or online marketplaces, they may reach a larger audience and provide ease to clients who prefer buying things online through direct sales. Certain tuna brands in a can might have physical locations where customers can make direct product purchases. 

With direct communication between the brand and the customer, these stores give the brand more control over the marketing and sales process. Some tuna producers in cans may use direct-to-consumer tactics to forge closer customer ties. This is selling goods to customers directly using various strategies, including tailored marketing, loyalty schemes, and subscription services.

Tuna Insights

The skip jack segment holds the largest share of the canned tuna market. Katsuwonus pelamis, often known as skipjack tuna, is one of the species most frequently used to make tuna sauce. It is valued for its tasty and dark-colored meat and is noted for being comparatively tiny compared to other tuna species like albacore or yellowfin. Products from canned tuna frequently come in various cuts, like pieces or flakes. 

One type of tuna commonly found in the market is a skipjack chunk. Because skipjack has a gentler flavor and a lighter color than other tuna species, it is frequently called "light tuna." The sustainability of tuna products could pique the curiosity of specific customers. There may be a niche for skipjack tuna sourced sustainably and with certifications from groups such as the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC). Different market sectors may target customers seeking particular flavor profiles, such as smoked or sauce-based skipjack tuna. Tuna can be processed in a variety of ways.

Yellowfin segment is expected to grow at the fastest rate during the forecast period. One of the main kinds of tuna frequently captured and prepared for the canned market is yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacores). Because of its reputation for having delicate and tasty flesh, yellowfin is commonly used in canned tuna products. This highly migratory species can be found worldwide in tropical and subtropical waters. Different tuna species, such as skipjack, albacore, and yellowfin, are used in the canned tuna industry. Because of its flavor and texture, yellowfin tuna is frequently used for more expensive and superior canned tuna products. A substantial portion of the world's seafood market comprises canned tuna, which comes in various varieties, from plain to flavored and sauce-mixed.

Recent Developments

• In December 2023, Six expertly prepared yellowfin tins with outstanding flavors were introduced by Tonnino, the brand that a-fish-condos knows best for their quality yellowfin tuna in cans and jars. Everyone will find it easier to prepare meals with the new rollout at Walmart Grocers, regardless of the occasion. Being the top gourmet tuna brand in the US, Tonnino is highly satisfied with sustainable fishing methods that preserve flavor and quality.
• In July 2023, Five new seafood products will soon be available nationwide on Whole Foods Market shelves, according to a recent announcement from Wild Planet Foods, the pioneer of sustainably obtained seafood that seeks to turn fishing into a positive force. Known for providing unmatched flavor, Wild Earth offers these new SKUs to consumers who want to buy premium canned fish products that value sustainability and benefit their health and the earth's health.
• In the year 2020, Pa Waen a leading brand of thai mixed chili paste signed an agreement along with Thai Union SEALECT Tuna in order to introduce brand new 5 flavors of tuna flakes.

Canned Tuna Market Companies

• Thai Union Group PCL
• Frinsa del Noroeste SA
• Jealsa Rianxeira SA
• Centuary Pacific Food, Inc.
• Golden Prize Canning Co. Ltd.
• Albacora S.A.
• American Tuna, Inc.
• Wild Planet Foods, Inc.
• Ocean Brands GP (The Jim Pattison Group)
• C.F. Fishery Co., Ltd (Bumble Bee Foods, LLC)

Major Market Segments Covered:

By Product Type

• Flavored
• Unflavoured

By End use

• B2C
• B2B

By Sales Channel

• Direct
• Indirect

By Tuna Species

• Albacore
• Skip Jack
• Yellowfin
• Others

By Type

• Ready-To-Eat
• Ready-To-Cook

By Geography

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • U.K.
  • Germany
  • France
• Asia-Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • South Korea
• Rest of the World