Surimi

Surimi Market Outlook

The global Surimi market is projected to reach approximately USD 5.78 billion by 2035, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 4.4% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2035. The growth of this market can be attributed to increasing consumer preferences for seafood products, rising disposable incomes, and the expanding food service industry. The popularity of ready-to-eat meals and convenience foods has also significantly contributed to the surimi market's expansion. Furthermore, the evolving food trends favoring healthy and protein-rich products are also likely to stimulate market growth over the years.

Growth Factor of the Market

Several growth factors are propelling the surimi market forward. Firstly, increasing awareness of the health benefits associated with seafood consumption, including its high protein content and low-fat nature, is driving demand. Consumers are also becoming more health-conscious, leading to a preference for seafood alternatives like surimi, which offers a delicious taste and texture comparable to traditional seafood. Additionally, the growing trend of sustainable fishing practices is enhancing the surimi industry's reputation, as it is often produced using fish species that are abundant and well-managed. The rise of Asian cuisine globally has also contributed to surimi's popularity, particularly in sushi and sashimi dishes. Lastly, innovations in food processing technology are improving the quality and variety of surimi products available in the market, catering to diverse consumer preferences.

Key Highlights of the Market

• The surimi market is expected to witness steady growth, driven by rising demand for seafood alternatives.
• Health consciousness among consumers is resulting in increased consumption of protein-rich surimi products.
• Innovations in surimi processing techniques are enhancing product quality and variety.
• Expansion of the food service industry, particularly in developing regions, is boosting market opportunities.
• Adoption of sustainable fishing practices is positively impacting the market perception of surimi products.

By Product Type

Crab Stick:

Crab sticks are one of the most popular surimi products available in the market, primarily due to their affordability and accessibility in various regions. Made from fish paste and flavored to resemble crab meat, these products are commonly used in sushi rolls, salads, and as snack items. The crab stick segment is expected to witness significant growth due to the rising popularity of Asian cuisine globally, as well as increasing consumer awareness regarding the health benefits of seafood. Moreover, crab sticks are versatile and can be easily incorporated into a variety of dishes, making them a preferred choice among consumers.

Fish Cake:

Fish cakes, another prominent product type in the surimi market, are made from minced fish combined with various ingredients, including starch, spices, and vegetables, to enhance texture and flavor. They are widely consumed in several Asian countries and are gaining traction in Western markets as well. The growing inclination towards ready-to-eat meal options, along with the convenience associated with fish cakes, is likely to boost their market share. Additionally, the ability to freeze and store fish cakes without losing flavor or quality contributes to their growing popularity among consumers seeking quick meal solutions.

Imitation Lobster:

Imitation lobster products, derived from surimi, are designed to replicate the taste and texture of actual lobster. This category has seen a rise in demand driven by premium seafood restaurants and home cooks seeking cost-effective alternatives to real lobster meat. As the culinary trend for gourmet dishes continues to grow, imitation lobster products are becoming a staple in upscale dining and casual eateries alike. The versatility of imitation lobster in various preparations—from salads to pasta dishes—adds to its market appeal and opens up new opportunities for culinary innovation within the surimi segment.

Imitation Shrimp:

Imitation shrimp, similar to imitation lobster, has gained prominence among consumers seeking seafood alternatives that offer both taste and affordability. These products are often crafted from high-quality surimi and are used in a range of culinary applications, including appetizers, stir-fries, and seafood salads. The popularity of Asian cuisines, which frequently utilize shrimp in various dishes, contributes to the growing demand for imitation shrimp. Additionally, the increasing focus on plant-based diets and sustainable seafood options is likely to further drive the demand for this versatile product category in the surimi market.

Surimi Paste:

Surimi paste serves as a fundamental ingredient in various surimi products and is produced by washing and grinding fish meat. It is known for its ability to mimic the texture and flavor of real seafood, making it a crucial component in the production of crab sticks, fish cakes, and other imitation seafood products. The versatility of surimi paste allows manufacturers to create a wide variety of seafood-like products, thus driving its demand in the market. As consumer preferences for innovative food products continue to evolve, the importance of high-quality surimi paste will likely increase, propelling its growth within the surimi market.

By Application

Seafood Processing:

The seafood processing segment represents a significant application area for surimi products. Surimi is commonly employed as a key ingredient in the production of various seafood items, enhancing flavor and texture while increasing the product's overall yield. The demand for processed seafood products is rising globally, driven by consumer preferences for convenience and quality. Moreover, the seafood processing industry is expanding in response to growing seafood consumption, and surimi's functional properties make it a highly sought-after ingredient in this segment.

Food Industry:

Within the food industry, surimi is utilized in an array of products, including snacks, appetizers, and ready-to-eat meals. The trend towards healthier food options has led food manufacturers to incorporate surimi into their offerings, as it provides a low-fat, high-protein alternative to traditional meat products. Furthermore, the ease of preparation and versatility of surimi allows food manufacturers to create innovative products that cater to diverse consumer tastes. As the food industry continues to evolve, the role of surimi as a key ingredient is anticipated to grow, positively impacting market dynamics.

Sushi and Sashimi:

Surimi is widely used in sushi and sashimi dishes, particularly in the form of crab sticks and imitation seafood. The increasing popularity of sushi and Japanese cuisine in global markets has driven demand for surimi products used in these applications. As more consumers seek authentic dining experiences, restaurants and food service operators are incorporating surimi into their menus. The rising consumer interest in sushi and sashimi, coupled with the affordability of surimi products compared to real seafood, is likely to further propel this application's growth.

Ready-to-Eat Meals:

The ready-to-eat meals segment has experienced substantial growth, with surimi products featuring prominently as convenient protein sources. Busy lifestyles have led consumers to seek quick meal options that do not compromise on taste or nutrition. Surimi, being easy to prepare and full of flavor, fits perfectly into this trend. As a result, food companies are increasingly incorporating surimi into their ready-to-eat meal offerings, from pasta dishes to salads, to meet the growing demand for convenient yet healthy meal solutions.

Others:

Additional applications of surimi products can be found in various sectors, including catering, meal kits, and gourmet cooking. The versatility of surimi allows it to be used in an array of culinary settings, providing chefs and home cooks with innovative ways to incorporate seafood-like flavors into their dishes. As consumer tastes continue to evolve and more people explore international cuisines, the potential for surimi products in diverse applications will expand, presenting growth opportunities for manufacturers and suppliers in the market.

By Distribution Channel

Supermarkets/Hypermarkets:

Supermarkets and hypermarkets remain the primary distribution channels for surimi products, as they offer consumers a wide selection of options under one roof. The large-scale retail environment allows consumers to explore various brands and product types, leading to heightened awareness and consumption of surimi products. Additionally, the convenience of shopping in these retail formats, along with promotional activities and in-store tastings, enhances consumer engagement and boosts sales. As the demand for seafood alternatives continues to rise, supermarkets and hypermarkets are likely to maintain their position as significant distribution channels for surimi.

Convenience Stores:

Convenience stores play a crucial role in distributing surimi products, particularly in urban areas where consumers prioritize quick and easy meal solutions. The rising trend of on-the-go consumption has led convenience stores to stock various surimi items, catering to consumers seeking ready-to-eat options. The convenience of purchasing surimi products from local stores contributes to their growing popularity among busy consumers. As lifestyles continue to evolve, convenience stores are expected to become an increasingly important distribution channel for surimi products.

Online Retail:

Online retail has emerged as a significant distribution channel for surimi products, driven by the growing trend of e-commerce and consumer preferences for shopping from home. The ability to browse through a diverse range of products and have them delivered directly to consumers' doorsteps has made online shopping increasingly appealing. Furthermore, many consumers appreciate the convenience of purchasing perishable items like surimi online, as it allows them to access high-quality products that may not be available in local stores. As internet penetration increases and e-commerce platforms continue to evolve, online retail is poised for growth within the surimi market.

Specialty Stores:

Specialty stores, including gourmet shops and health food stores, cater to niche markets that prioritize high-quality and unique food products, including surimi. These stores often stock premium surimi products, appealing to consumers seeking healthier, gourmet, or specialty seafood options. The growth of the gourmet food trend and the increasing consumer focus on quality over quantity are expected to boost the presence and sales of surimi in specialty retail settings. As more consumers become discerning about their food choices, specialty stores will continue to play an essential role in the surimi market.

Others:

Other distribution channels include food service establishments, catering companies, and institutional buyers such as schools and hospitals. These channels contribute to the overall market dynamics by incorporating surimi into a wide range of culinary applications. The growing trend of serving seafood alternatives in institutional settings highlights the importance of these distribution channels in expanding surimi's reach. As the demand for convenient and nutritious meal options continues to grow across various sectors, additional distribution channels will play a vital role in enhancing the availability of surimi products.

By Ingredient Type

Alaska Pollock:

Alaska Pollock is one of the most widely used fish species for surimi production, primarily due to its mild flavor, firm texture, and abundance. The high protein content and low-fat nature of Alaska Pollock make it an ideal choice for health-conscious consumers. As a result, products made from Alaska Pollock are highly sought after in various culinary applications, including crab sticks and fish cakes. The sustainability practices surrounding Alaska Pollock fishing and its certification by organizations such as the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) further enhance its market appeal, as consumers increasingly prefer eco-friendly seafood options.

Blue Whiting:

Blue whiting is another popular ingredient in the production of surimi, known for its mild flavor and flaky texture. This fish species is often utilized in surimi products to achieve a cost-effective alternative to more expensive seafood. The rising adoption of blue whiting in surimi production is driven by its availability and lower price compared to other fish. As demand for budget-friendly seafood alternatives increases, blue whiting's role in the surimi market is expected to grow, catering to price-sensitive consumers without compromising quality.

Cod:

Cod is a favored ingredient for surimi production, particularly in regions where this fish is abundant. Its high-quality meat and firm texture make it suitable for various applications in the surimi market. Cod-based surimi products are known for their rich flavor and versatility, appealing to consumers who appreciate traditional seafood tastes. The growing trend of premiumization in food products is likely to benefit cod surimi, as consumers increasingly seek high-quality ingredients and gourmet options in their culinary experiences.

Hake:

Hake is another species utilized in surimi production, particularly in European markets. Known for its delicate flavor and tender texture, hake-based surimi products are gaining traction among consumers seeking mild-tasting seafood alternatives. The increasing consumption of hake in various culinary applications is contributing to the growth of this ingredient type in the surimi market. As consumer preferences continue to diversify, the demand for hake in surimi production is likely to rise, supported by its flavor profile and adaptability in different dishes.

Others:

Several other fish species and ingredients are also used in surimi production, contributing to the overall diversity of the market. These may include lesser-known fish varieties and plant-based ingredients that cater to the growing demand for alternative protein sources. Innovations in surimi formulations are enabling manufacturers to experiment with various ingredients, creating unique products that appeal to health-conscious consumers and those seeking vegetarian or alternative options. As interest in sustainable and diverse food sources continues to rise, the inclusion of various ingredient types in the surimi market presents opportunities for manufacturers to expand their product offerings.

By Region

The Asia Pacific region holds a significant share of the global surimi market, attributed to the deep-rooted culinary tradition of consuming seafood and the high demand for surimi products in countries like Japan, South Korea, and China. The region is projected to grow at a CAGR of approximately 4.9% from 2025 to 2035, driven by the increasing popularity of sushi and sashimi, as well as the rising consumption of processed seafood. Additionally, expanding urbanization, along with the growing trend of ready-to-eat meals, is expected to fuel the demand for surimi in this region, making it a key player in the global market.

North America is another prominent market for surimi products, driven by the increasing awareness of healthy eating habits and the growing preference for seafood alternatives among consumers. The United States, in particular, is witnessing a rising trend of incorporating surimi in various culinary applications, including snack foods and ready-to-eat meals. As consumer preferences continue to evolve towards convenient and nutritious options, the North American surimi market is expected to grow steadily, contributing to the overall global market dynamics.

Opportunities

The surimi market is poised for numerous opportunities driven by evolving consumer preferences and dietary trends. One of the primary opportunities lies in the growing demand for plant-based alternatives that align with health and sustainability goals. As consumers increasingly seek out plant-based diets, manufacturers have an opportunity to innovate by developing surimi products that incorporate plant proteins, thus catering to a broader audience. Collaborations with chefs and culinary professionals can also help introduce new and exciting applications for surimi within various cuisines, enhancing its market positioning.

Moreover, the expansion of the food service industry, particularly in emerging markets, presents a significant opportunity for surimi manufacturers. As dining habits shift towards international cuisines and healthy eating, restaurants and eateries are incorporating surimi into their menus to meet consumer demand. The development of new flavor profiles and product formats tailored to different culinary applications can further drive growth in this segment. The construction of strategic partnerships with food service providers and retail distributors can help surimi brands expand their reach and enhance their market presence, ultimately driving growth in the coming years.

Threats

Despite the promising growth prospects for the surimi market, several threats could impact its trajectory. One of the primary threats is the increasing competition from alternative protein sources, such as plant-based and lab-grown seafood products. As consumers become more inclined towards sustainable and environmentally-friendly options, surimi products may face challenges in retaining market share. Additionally, fluctuations in raw material prices, particularly fish species used in surimi production, could impact profitability and pricing strategies for manufacturers, creating volatility in the market. Furthermore, health concerns related to food safety and quality may also pose a challenge, as consumers demand transparency and traceability in their food sources.

Another critical threat to the surimi market is the potential for regulatory changes affecting seafood sourcing and production practices. Stricter regulations regarding fishing practices and sustainability standards could impact the availability of certain fish species, potentially leading to supply chain disruptions. Manufacturers must remain vigilant and adaptable to changing regulations while ensuring compliance to maintain consumer trust and brand reputation. Overall, the surimi market must navigate these threats while capitalizing on opportunities to sustain growth in the evolving food landscape.

Competitor Outlook

• Seafood Source
• Maruha Nichiro Corporation
• Kaneko Fishery Co., Ltd.
• Clover Leaf Seafoods
• Trident Seafoods Corporation
• Oceana Group Limited
• High Liner Foods
• Hastings Seafood
• Surimi Fish Company
• Chuo Kagaku Co., Ltd.
• Star Fish Co.
• Sakata Seed Corporation
• Fukushima Fishery Co., Ltd.
• Hokkaido Fishery Co.
• Thai Union Group PCL

The competitive landscape of the surimi market is characterized by the presence of a diverse array of players ranging from large multinational corporations to niche regional manufacturers. Key companies in this sector are strategically focusing on product innovations and advancements in processing technologies to enhance the quality and variety of surimi offerings. Furthermore, many companies are investing in sustainability measures to address consumer concerns about fishing practices and environmental impact. Collaborations and partnerships among manufacturers, distributors, and retailers are also common in securing supply chains and expanding market reach.

Major companies such as Maruha Nichiro Corporation and Trident Seafoods Corporation have established themselves as leaders in the surimi market by maintaining high-quality standards and offering a wide range of products. Maruha Nichiro is recognized for its commitment to sustainability, leveraging its practices in sourcing and production to appeal to environmentally-conscious consumers. Trident Seafoods, on the other hand, emphasizes innovation and continuously develops new product lines to cater to evolving consumer preferences. Both companies are dedicated to maintaining their competitive edge through research and development, marketing strategies, and strong distribution channels.

Additionally, companies like Thai Union Group PCL and Clover Leaf Seafoods have made significant investments in expanding their product portfolios while ensuring compliance with food safety regulations. Thai Union has established itself as a global player in the seafood market, and its commitment to responsible sourcing aligns with growing consumer demand for transparency. Clover Leaf Seafoods, known for its premium seafood products, is focused on enhancing its surimi offerings by incorporating innovative flavors and textures to attract a broader audience. Overall, the competitive dynamics in the surimi market will continue to evolve as companies seek to adapt to changing consumer preferences and market conditions.

• 1 Appendix

  • 1.1 List of Tables
  • 1.2 List of Figures

• 2 Introduction

  • 2.1 Market Definition
  • 2.2 Scope of the Report
  • 2.3 Study Assumptions
  • 2.4 Base Currency & Forecast Periods

• 3 Market Dynamics

  • 3.1 Market Growth Factors
  • 3.2 Economic & Global Events
  • 3.3 Innovation Trends
  • 3.4 Supply Chain Analysis

• 4 Consumer Behavior

  • 4.1 Market Trends
  • 4.2 Pricing Analysis
  • 4.3 Buyer Insights

• 5 Key Player Profiles

  • 5.1 Star Fish Co.
    • 5.1.1 Business Overview
    • 5.1.2 Products & Services
    • 5.1.3 Financials
    • 5.1.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.1.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.2 Seafood Source
    • 5.2.1 Business Overview
    • 5.2.2 Products & Services
    • 5.2.3 Financials
    • 5.2.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.2.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.3 Hastings Seafood
    • 5.3.1 Business Overview
    • 5.3.2 Products & Services
    • 5.3.3 Financials
    • 5.3.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.3.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.4 High Liner Foods
    • 5.4.1 Business Overview
    • 5.4.2 Products & Services
    • 5.4.3 Financials
    • 5.4.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.4.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.5 Surimi Fish Company
    • 5.5.1 Business Overview
    • 5.5.2 Products & Services
    • 5.5.3 Financials
    • 5.5.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.5.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.6 Clover Leaf Seafoods
    • 5.6.1 Business Overview
    • 5.6.2 Products & Services
    • 5.6.3 Financials
    • 5.6.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.6.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.7 Hokkaido Fishery Co.
    • 5.7.1 Business Overview
    • 5.7.2 Products & Services
    • 5.7.3 Financials
    • 5.7.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.7.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.8 Oceana Group Limited
    • 5.8.1 Business Overview
    • 5.8.2 Products & Services
    • 5.8.3 Financials
    • 5.8.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.8.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.9 Thai Union Group PCL
    • 5.9.1 Business Overview
    • 5.9.2 Products & Services
    • 5.9.3 Financials
    • 5.9.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.9.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.10 Chuo Kagaku Co., Ltd.
    • 5.10.1 Business Overview
    • 5.10.2 Products & Services
    • 5.10.3 Financials
    • 5.10.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.10.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.11 Sakata Seed Corporation
    • 5.11.1 Business Overview
    • 5.11.2 Products & Services
    • 5.11.3 Financials
    • 5.11.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.11.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.12 Kaneko Fishery Co., Ltd.
    • 5.12.1 Business Overview
    • 5.12.2 Products & Services
    • 5.12.3 Financials
    • 5.12.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.12.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.13 Maruha Nichiro Corporation
    • 5.13.1 Business Overview
    • 5.13.2 Products & Services
    • 5.13.3 Financials
    • 5.13.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.13.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.14 Fukushima Fishery Co., Ltd.
    • 5.14.1 Business Overview
    • 5.14.2 Products & Services
    • 5.14.3 Financials
    • 5.14.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.14.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.15 Trident Seafoods Corporation
    • 5.15.1 Business Overview
    • 5.15.2 Products & Services
    • 5.15.3 Financials
    • 5.15.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.15.5 SWOT Analysis

• 6 Market Segmentation

  • 6.1 Surimi Market, By Application
    • 6.1.1 Seafood Processing
    • 6.1.2 Food Industry
    • 6.1.3 Sushi and Sashimi
    • 6.1.4 Ready-to-Eat Meals
    • 6.1.5 Others
  • 6.2 Surimi Market, By Product Type
    • 6.2.1 Crab Stick
    • 6.2.2 Fish Cake
    • 6.2.3 Imitation Lobster
    • 6.2.4 Imitation Shrimp
    • 6.2.5 Surimi Paste
  • 6.3 Surimi Market, By Ingredient Type
    • 6.3.1 Alaska Pollock
    • 6.3.2 Blue Whiting
    • 6.3.3 Cod
    • 6.3.4 Hake
    • 6.3.5 Others
  • 6.4 Surimi Market, By Distribution Channel
    • 6.4.1 Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
    • 6.4.2 Convenience Stores
    • 6.4.3 Online Retail
    • 6.4.4 Specialty Stores
    • 6.4.5 Others

• 7 Competitive Analysis

  • 7.1 Key Player Comparison
  • 7.2 Market Share Analysis
  • 7.3 Investment Trends
  • 7.4 SWOT Analysis

• 8 Research Methodology

  • 8.1 Analysis Design
  • 8.2 Research Phases
  • 8.3 Study Timeline

• 9 Future Market Outlook

  • 9.1 Growth Forecast
  • 9.2 Market Evolution

• 10 Geographical Overview

  • 10.1 Surimi Market by Region
  • 10.2 Europe - Market Analysis
    • 10.2.1 By Country
      • 10.2.1.1 UK
      • 10.2.1.2 France
      • 10.2.1.3 Germany
      • 10.2.1.4 Spain
      • 10.2.1.5 Italy
  • 10.3 Asia Pacific - Market Analysis
    • 10.3.1 By Country
      • 10.3.1.1 India
      • 10.3.1.2 China
      • 10.3.1.3 Japan
      • 10.3.1.4 South Korea
  • 10.4 Latin America - Market Analysis
    • 10.4.1 By Country
      • 10.4.1.1 Brazil
      • 10.4.1.2 Argentina
      • 10.4.1.3 Mexico
  • 10.5 North America - Market Analysis
    • 10.5.1 By Country
      • 10.5.1.1 USA
      • 10.5.1.2 Canada
  • 10.6 Middle East & Africa - Market Analysis
    • 10.6.1 By Country
      • 10.6.1.1 Middle East
      • 10.6.1.2 Africa

• 11 Global Economic Factors

  • 11.1 Inflation Impact
  • 11.2 Trade Policies

• 12 Technology & Innovation

  • 12.1 Emerging Technologies
  • 12.2 AI & Digital Trends
  • 12.3 Patent Research

• 13 Investment & Market Growth

  • 13.1 Funding Trends
  • 13.2 Future Market Projections

• 14 Market Overview & Key Insights

  • 14.1 Executive Summary
  • 14.2 Key Trends
  • 14.3 Market Challenges
  • 14.4 Regulatory Landscape

Segments Analyzed in the Report

The global Surimi market is categorized based on

By Product Type

• Crab Stick
• Fish Cake
• Imitation Lobster
• Imitation Shrimp
• Surimi Paste

By Application

• Seafood Processing
• Food Industry
• Sushi and Sashimi
• Ready-to-Eat Meals
• Others

By Distribution Channel

• Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
• Convenience Stores
• Online Retail
• Specialty Stores
• Others

By Ingredient Type

• Alaska Pollock
• Blue Whiting
• Cod
• Hake
• Others

By Region

• Asia Pacific
• North America
• Europe
• Latin America
• Middle East & Africa

Key Players

• Seafood Source
• Maruha Nichiro Corporation
• Kaneko Fishery Co., Ltd.
• Clover Leaf Seafoods
• Trident Seafoods Corporation
• Oceana Group Limited
• High Liner Foods
• Hastings Seafood
• Surimi Fish Company
• Chuo Kagaku Co., Ltd.
• Star Fish Co.
• Sakata Seed Corporation
• Fukushima Fishery Co., Ltd.
• Hokkaido Fishery Co.
• Thai Union Group PCL