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The global canned tuna market size was valued at USD 39.6 billion in 2024 and is projected to expand to over 4.4% CAGR from 2025 to 2034. Canned tuna, a processed fish preserved in cans with water, oil, or brine, serves as a convenient and long-lasting protein source. Its affordability, versatility, and health benefits, notably its high protein and omega-3 content, have cemented its status as a global dietary staple.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the United States alone consumed over 600 billion pounds of canned tuna in 2022. The market for canned tuna is buoyed by opportunities such as the surging demand for sustainable seafood, an uptick in health consciousness, and the broadening reach of online retail channels.
Report Attribute | Details |
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Base Year: | 2024 |
Canned Tuna Market Size in 2024: | USD 39.6 Billion |
Forecast Period: | 2025 - 2034 |
Forecast Period 2025 - 2034 CAGR: | 4.4% |
2034 Value Projection: | USD 61 Billion |
Historical Data for: | 2021 - 2024 |
No. of Pages: | 235 |
Tables, Charts & Figures: | 165 |
Segments covered: | Type, packaging, end-use, distribution channel |
Growth Drivers: |
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Pitfalls & Challenges: |
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reports a 15% increase in online grocery sales in 2023, highlighting the expanding distribution channels. Furthermore, regions emphasizing convenience and healthy eating habits present growth potential through innovative packaging and product variations, including flavored or low-sodium options. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) notes that sustainable seafood initiatives have grown by 20% globally, reflecting a significant market trend. These factors collectively underscore the robust growth potential of the market.
Key trends are shaping the canned tuna industry. A notable shift is towards sustainably sourced products, spurred by heightened environmental awareness among consumers. In response, brands are increasingly securing eco-friendly certifications, such as MSC (Marine Stewardship Council). According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the U.S. saw a 15% increase in sustainably sourced seafood in 2023.
Furthermore, health-conscious consumers are driving demand for low-sodium, organic, and flavored tuna variants. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a 10% rise in organic food consumption in 2023. Convenience is paramount, with ready-to-eat formats gaining traction amidst busy lifestyles.
The U.S. Census Bureau noted a 20% increase in online retail sales in 2023, highlighting the shift towards online retail and direct-to-consumer sales as favored distribution channels. Meanwhile, urbanization and rising disposable incomes are propelling increased consumption in emerging markets, especially in the Asia-Pacific and Latin America regions. The World Bank reported a 5% increase in urbanization rates in these regions in 2023, further driving market growth.
The canned tuna industry is driven by high global demand for affordable, convenient protein options, with North America and Europe being key consumers. Increasing health awareness is spurring interest in tuna’s nutritional benefits, particularly its high protein and omega-3 content. Market growth is also supported by innovations in product offerings, such as low-sodium, organic, and flavored varieties.
However, sustainability concerns and overfishing pose challenges, prompting a shift toward responsibly sourced tuna. Asia-Pacific is emerging as a major growth region, fueled by rising disposable incomes and urbanization. Overall, the market is expected to witness steady growth driven by evolving consumer preferences.
The skipjack tuna segment held over USD 18.9 billion in 2024, growing at a CAGR of over 4.8% during the forecast period. Skipjack tuna holds a dominant position in the canned tuna market due to its abundance, affordability, and wide consumer acceptance. It is the most used tuna species for canning, accounting for a significant share of global tuna production.
The scope for skipjack tuna in the canned market is expanding as demand for cost-effective, nutritious, and sustainable seafood grows. Its fast reproduction rate makes it a more sustainable option compared to other tuna species, aligning with the increasing focus on environmental responsibility. Additionally, skipjack's mild flavor and versatility in various recipes make it a popular choice among consumers worldwide.
The canned in water segment from canned tuna market size dominated around USD 15.3 billion in 2024 and garner a 4.7% CAGR through 2034, primarily due to its appeal to health-conscious consumers seeking lower-fat and lower-calorie options compared to tuna in oil. As demand for clean-label and minimally processed foods rises, tuna packed in water is gaining popularity for its simplicity and higher protein retention. This segment is also expanding in fitness and weight management markets, where lean protein is highly valued.
With increasing awareness about heart health and healthy eating, canned tuna in water is positioned for growth, particularly in North America, Europe, and emerging markets focused on healthier dietary choices.
The canned tuna market size from the retail consumption segment is anticipated to experience around 4.6% CAGR during 2025 to 2034 with a market size of USD 27.6 billion in 2024, driven by the product's affordability, convenience, and long shelf life. Supermarkets, hypermarkets, and online retail platforms are key distribution channels, offering consumers easy access to various canned tuna options, including flavored, low-sodium, and sustainably sourced products.
The rise of e-commerce and direct-to-consumer sales is further expanding retail consumption, with busy lifestyles and health-conscious choices fueling demand. Retailers also benefit from consumer preferences for ready-to-eat meals and meal prep solutions, positioning canned tuna as a staple in households globally.
The supermarkets/hypermarkets segment from canned tuna market were valued at USD 17.5 billion in 2024 and garner a 4.3% CAGR from 2025 to 2034. Supermarkets and hypermarkets play a crucial role in the distribution of canned tuna, offering extensive reach and convenience for consumers. These large retail formats dominate the market due to their ability to stock a wide variety of brands, flavors, and packaging options, catering to different consumer preferences.
Their established presence, particularly in urban areas, provides easy access to canned tuna for both regular shoppers and bulk buyers. Additionally, supermarkets and hypermarkets often engage in promotions and discounts, making them attractive points of sale. As consumers continue to seek convenience and variety, these retail channels remain vital for the growth of the market.
The Germany canned tuna market size dominated with a market size of USD 1.4 billion in 2024 and expected to grow at a 4.8% CAGR during the forecast period, driven by the growing demand for healthy, convenient food options, as consumers increasingly prioritize protein-rich diets. Sustainable sourcing is a key focus, with German shoppers showing strong preferences for tuna certified by organizations like MSC (Marine Stewardship Council).
The market is characterized by a variety of product offerings, including oil-packed, water-packed, and flavored tuna variants, sold primarily through supermarkets, hypermarkets, and online channels. Rising awareness of sustainability and environmental impact has led to increased demand for responsibly sourced and eco-friendly canned tuna, influencing market dynamics and driving innovation among leading brands in Germany.
Companies in the canned tuna industry are adopting several strategies to meet evolving consumer demands and market challenges. Sustainability is a key focus, with brands increasingly sourcing tuna from certified sustainable fisheries and promoting eco-friendly practices like reduced bycatch. Product innovation is another strategy, as companies introduce low-sodium, organic, and flavored options to cater to health-conscious consumers. Expanding distribution through e-commerce and direct-to-consumer channels is also gaining importance, capitalizing on growing online grocery shopping trends. Additionally, brands are leveraging marketing campaigns that emphasize transparency, traceability, and quality, helping build trust and brand loyalty among environmentally and health-conscious consumers.
Major players operating in the canned tuna industry are:
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