Smoked Salmon Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Type (Hot-Smoked Salmon and Cold-Smoked Salmon), By End-Use (Commercial and Household), and Regional Forecast, 2025-2030

The global smoked salmon market size was valued at USD 12.59 billion in 2024. The market is projected to grow from USD 13.23 billion in 2025 to USD 17.28 billion by 2030, exhibiting growth at a CAGR of 5.48% during the forecast period. Europe dominated the smoked salmon market with a market share of 44.72% in 2024.

Few of the well-renowned players in the market include Mowi, Thai Union Group Public Limited Company, Austevoll Seafood ASA, and Ocean Beauty Seafoods.

Smoked salmon is a cured and salty fish made from a fish fillet that undergoes cold/hot smoked after curing. Typically, it is highly rich in omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, copper, phosphorus, Vitamin B12, and B6, all of which play a substantial role in supporting overall health. Some of the popular varieties in the global market include wild sockeye salmon, smoked trout, and Atlantic salmon. However, smoking is an ancient methods of preservation, yet its popularity has grown in the past few years, especially among health-centric individuals. Moreover, it offers numerous health advantages, such as improved heart health and minimizing the risk of cancer. The surge in demand for animal-sourced protein and the rising number of players in the industry are key factors contributing to the market's growth.

MARKET DYNAMICS

Market Drivers

Increasing Demand for Animal Protein to Support Market Expansion

Salmon consumption plays a crucial role in meeting global demand for animal protein and essential micronutrient. In the past few years, the demand dynamics for protein-rich food have changed substantially as people have become more aware of the importance of protein in their diet. In Western countries, the demand for low-fat, low-calorie, and high-quality protein-containing food is extremely high, and hence, salmon is a desired choice for customers. As a result, demand is anticipated to boost the global smoked salmon market growth, particularly driven by the escalating animal-based protein requirements in emerging countries and the rapidly growing human population. For instance, as per the World Health Organization (WHO), the consumption of animal-based items, including animal protein, has increased significantly, especially in Brazil and China.

Surge in Demand for Convenient and Processed Foods to Fuel Market Growth

The industry has grown exponentially as a result of augmented demand for processed and convenience foods. In today's health-conscious era, Consumers are increasingly seeking ready-to-eat and easy-to-prepare food options due to busy lifestyles. These products are often available in pre-sliced packages, fits perfectly with this trend. It requires minimal preparation and can be consumed straight from the package or quickly incorporated into various dishes such as salads, sandwiches, and breakfast spreads. This convenience factor particularly appeals to working professionals and families seeking nutritious meal solutions without extensive cooking time. According to the Food Institute and Mondelez report, around 6 in 10 consumers preferred smaller meals or snacks during the day instead of a few large meals.

Market Restraints

Growing Shift Toward Veganism and Fluctuations in Climatic Conditions Impede Sales 

The growing inclination toward veganism is one of the critical restraints faced by producers across the global market. In recent years, a substantial percentage of consumers have switched toward vegetarian and vegan diets due to dairy allergy, environmental concerns, health concerns, and others. This shift has negatively affected meat and seafood sales in different regions of the globe.

Another factor inhibiting the consumption is fluctuations in weather conditions. Such climatic variations impact salmon availability in the oceans, leading to a shortage in the market. Apart from climate change, pollution of water bodies also hamper the delicate equilibrium of the ecosystem in marine bodies, leading to a reduction in safe and healthy fish populations. As a result, this scenario can hinder the global market growth.

Market Challenges

Increasing Concerns Regarding Food Safety Obstructs Market Momentum 

Rising concerns about food quality and safety pose major challenges for the industry. Modern consumers are highly concerned about the safety and the quality of their food products. Along with this, other factors, such as the rising threat of food toxicity, foodborne illnesses, and allergic reactions highlight the importance for food safety measures and advanced food-quality testing facilities. A few of the key foodborne pathogens found in salmon include Salmonella, Campylobacter, Listeria monocytogenes, and others. As a result, the risk associated with the consumption of contaminated salmonella products deters consumers from purchasing such products.

Market Opportunities

Investment in Production & Technology Innovation Pave Growth Prospects  

Increasing investment in product development and technological innovation creates enormous growth opportunities in the industry. In today's market, product innovation is key to success in almost every industry, and the market is no exception. In mature markets such as Europe and the U.S., the demand for innovative products using traditional smoking techniques and others is rising at a significant pace. In fact, some of the key players have already started capitalizing on these opportunities to generate higher revenue. For instance, in December 2022, ACME SMOKED FISH introduced its Danish Double-Smoked Salmon, a premium product that showcases a blend of traditional smoking techniques and modern innovations. This new offering is part of ACME's Spence & Co. line and is designed to appeal to salmon enthusiasts looking for a unique flavor experience. Moreover, the advancements in technologies that enhance transparency in fishing methods are likely to further propel consumer demand, especially among environment-conscious buyers who prefer sustainable and eco-friendly products.

SMOKED SALMON MARKET TRENDS

Development of Eco-Friendly and Clean Labeled Product Portfolio to Augment Market Growth

Clean labels and better-for-you foods have become the new norm in the processed food industry as more and more consumers have become increasingly conscious about the food they are eating. The future growth trajectory for clean-labeled food products is promising, creating lucrative opportunities for the development of an extensive portfolio of clean-labeled products. Consumers are willingly paying extra for products with clean label certifications. Moreover, the interest of consumers toward minimally processed and non-GMO food has augmented extensively in the past few years, and hence, producers can invest in these trends to remain prominent in the market. For instance, in December 2019, Lidl Germany achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first grocery retailer in the country to offer certified non-genetically modified organism (GMO) salmon. Additionally, starting in 2020, Lidl's Norwegian producers also carried the GMO-free certification, reinforcing its commitment to clean-labels and sustainable food offerings.

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Impact of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic had a negative impact on fisheries and aquaculture globally, which is a crucial sector for global economic stability and food security. During the first phase of the lockdown in 2020, the demand for such products through the foodservice outlets witnessed a rapid decline due to the restrictions on public spaces aimed to curb the spread of the disease. Moreover, fish processing plants across the globe faced operational difficulties as consumer demand for shelf-stable food products increased. The production salmon at the processing plants was significantly disrupted during the pandemic. However, retail demand for the product increased. In the early months of lockdown, as the restaurants sales declined, consumer demand for processed fish products, particularly, ready-to-eat convenience foods increased. This shift led to a rise in retail sales of such products.

SEGMENTATION ANALYSIS

By Type

Cold-Smoked Salmon Segment Led Market Due to Its Nutritional Benefits

Based on type, the market is segmented into hot-smoked salmon and cold-smoked salmon. The cold type dominated the market and held the leading share of the market in 2024. Wider product availability and taste primarily affect product demand from various applications, including household, food processing, and food service. It is prepared at temperatures below 80°F, which offers a mild smoky flavor and helps to maintain the silky texture of salmon. Additionally, this type contains higher nutrient value than the other type. Owing to its mild smoky flavor, rich nutrient, and texture, it is widely consumed in Japanese cuisines.

Hot-smoked salmon ranked second in the market and is anticipated to grow at the steady pace in the coming years. Its strong smoky flavor and the increasing demand for easy-to-prepare food products among users will drive the demand in the upcoming years. For instance, in August 2024, Ocean Beauty Seafoods, a global manufacturer, introduced its new hot smoked Atlantic salmon retail packs in three flavors-Santa Fe Spice, Northwest Original, and Kentucky Bourbon.

By End-Use

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Household Segment Dominated Market Owing to Large Usage of Smoked Salmon

Based on end-use, the market is distributed into commercial and household. The household segment led the market and generated the maximum share in 2024. These products are available for household usage across various retail channels, including supermarkets, hypermarkets, convenience stores, and online retail stores. The wider range of prepacked and preserved products offers shelf-stability and can be stored for a longer time. Thus, it is gaining more popularity among household consumption across Europe and America. Moreover, the increasing demand for processed foods that are convenient, safe, healthy, while fitting into busy life lifestyles is likely to drive the demand.

Commercial segment emerged as the fastest-growing segment and is predicted to bolster at a higher pace in the next years. The commercial segment contains food service sectors such as hotels, restaurants, cafes, and caterers, as well as food processing companies that produce prepared meals and ready-to-eat meals. Factors contributing to the growth include the rising demand for seafood and protein-rich convenience products within the HoReCa sector, which is expected to fuel the market.

Smoked Salmon Market Regional Outlook

By regions, the market is studied across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, and the Middle East & Africa. 

Europe

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Europe captured the highest amount in the global smoked salmon market share in 2024. This dominance in the region is majorly due to the increasing import activities and the surging need for sustainable seafood. In Europe, salmon is indeed one of the most consumed seafood species, with Atlantic salmon being the most significant. The economic strength of the salmon farming sector plays a pivotal role in promoting the regional seafood market, particularly influencing the segment. Additionally, the increasing preference for ethically sourced and gourmet salmon further supports the industry's potential.

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Among all European in countries, Germany secured the foremost position in the market due to its high household consumption levels. The increased use of such fish varieties in various cuisines, combined with strong purchasing power, has been a key factor promoting nation growth in the country.

Asia Pacific

Asia Pacific ranked second in the market and witnessed the highest CAGR of 6.26%. The region is emerging as a significant hub for both the production and consumption of salmon fish and has witnessed substantial growth in aquaculture, which is crucial for salmon production. Countries such as Australia and New Zealand are increasingly engaged in salmon farming, contributing to local supply and reducing reliance on imports. Moreover, the improved aquaculture production and surge in demand for sashimi and sushi further led to a higher demand. As a result, such factors are responsible for shaping the industry.

North America

North America secured the third position in the market, with consumption patterns influenced by culinary versatility and health-conscious trends. Moreover, the surging awareness of the health advantages, particularly its high omega-3 fatty acid content, makes them popular choice among consumers. Moreover, the expanding foodservice industry further escalates the usage of these fishes in several recipes.

U.S. is one of the major markets for seafood as consumers are well aware of the importance of a healthy diet, and to fulfill that requirement, they rely on various foods, including seafood.  According to the National Fisheries Institute (NFI), the U.S. per capita seafood consumption rose 7.9% to 20.5 pounds in 2021, a whopping increase of 1.5 pounds from 2020.

South America

South America is still in its nascent stage and is predicted to soar at a higher pace in the coming years. Brazil and Chile are major players in salmon farming due to favorable aquaculture conditions. The ability to produce high-quality salmon locally meets domestic demand and positions these countries as exporters, thus paving growth prospects.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa region is also in its developmental stage and is expected to grow rapidly in the near term. The emergence of specialty seafood restaurants in the Middle East & Africa (MEA) and changing dietary habits are key factors driving market growth.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Major Players in the Smoked Salmon Market

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Leading Players Are Concentrating on Base Expansion to Boost Profit Generation

Companies such as Mowi, Austevoll Seafood ASA, Thai Union Group Public Limited Company , Labeyrie Fine Foods , Ocean Beauty Seafoods  among others account for 40% of the total market share in 2024. These players are focusing on expanding their base in order to cater to a large consumer base globally. Coupled with base expansion, the pioneers in the market are focusing on mergers & acquisitions, thus assisting in gaining access to innovative product ideas and enhance their competitive positioning.

List of Key Smoked Salmon Companies Profiled

• Mowi (Norway)


• Labeyrie Fine Foods (France)


• Ocean Beauty Seafoods (U.S.)


• Austevoll Seafood ASA (Norway)


• Suempol (Poland)


• Milarex (Norway)


• SalMar ASA (Norway)


• Thai Union Group Public Limited Company (Thailand)


• ACME SMOKED FISH (U.S.)


• Cooke, Inc. (Canada)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS

• March 2024: Mowi, a Norweigan smoked salmon firm, introduced the "7 Origins of Salmon" campaign at the Seafood Expo, an event held in North America. Via this campaign, the firm showcased its diversified range of salmon, including smoked, fresh, and frozen products, for food service and retail customers.


• February 2024: Skandia Ahumados, a Spanish seafood producer, launched new varieties of salmon products in the market, named Smoked Salmon with cinnamon and ginger, with an exotic flavor, and Smoked Salmon Scandinavian Recipe, with dill and red berries.


• January 2024: ACME SMOKED FISH, a U.S.-based seafood enterprise, inaugurated a new manufacturing facility in the U.S. to manufacture innovative smoked salmon products in the market.  


• November 2023: Ocean Beauty Seafoods, a seafood player in the U.S. market, introduced its new five food service and retail-based salmon items, which were released under Echo Falls and Ocean Beauty Seafoods value-added brand.


• May 2023: Mowi, a well-known smoked salmon manufacturer, expanded its product offerings by launching the ready-to-cook "Bistro Bakes" category for consumers. This new range of four salmon recipes is available in the U.K. market via Asda and Sainsbury's stores.

REPORT COVERAGE

The global smoked salmon market research report includes quantitative and qualitative insights into the market. It also offers a detailed analysis of the market sizing and growth rate for all possible market segments. Various key insights presented in the report are an overview of related markets, competitive landscape, recent industry developments such as mergers & acquisitions, the regulatory scenario in critical countries, and industry trends.

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Report Scope & Segmentation­