Home > Food & Beverages > Processed Food > Convenience Foods > Canned Tuna Market
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.