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RISING seafood sales are expected to drive the UK frozen food market to more than £5 billion this year.
This is the view of Brian Young, director general of the British Frozen Food Federation, after figures show that the business is growing at an unprecedented rate, with frozen fish leading the way.
The latest information from TNS World Panel disclose that the overall market has seen 5.8 per cent year on year growth as at November 30 last year. Despite the economic downturn frozen food has enjoyed 10 consecutive quarters of accelerating growth.
But it is the performance of frozen fish which is catching the eye growing by just over 8.4 per cent a year - higher than the overall market. In value terms it was worth £689.5 million as at November last year, compared to £636.2 million over the same period in 2007. Volumes are up too - from 116,205 tonnes to 123,648 tonnes.
There are thought to be three main reasons for this welcome growth - competitive prices in the shops, innovative seafood products and the fact there is virtually no waste with frozen fish - all important when money is tight.
Young said: 'This remarkable growth has been led by Birds Eye and Young's, capitalising on the Omega-3 health benefits and sustainable sourcing.'
He added: 'Consumers are turning frozen in large numbers attracted by the nutrients, minimal waste and terrific value.'
The BFFF has just launched a new consumer website (www.thenewiceage.com) to educate consumers on the benefits of frozen fish.
www.fishupdate.com is published by Special Publications. Special Publications also publish Fish Farmer, the Fish Industry Yearbook, the Scottish Seafood Processors Federation Diary, the Fish Farmer Handbook and a range of wallplanners.
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