ANALYSIS: Weather, Trade Dynamics and Seasonal Demand Drive Firm Lobster Pricing

Over the past several weeks, escalating raw material costs have driven lobster market prices steadily higher, with select sizes now trading at 52-week highs. Severe winter weather across much of the US and Canada, among the harshest in recent years, has only intensified supply challenges. While fishermen are no strangers to rough seas, the added impact of extreme cold has led to iced-over ports and dangerous conditions at sea. As a result, harvest activity has been sharply reduced, with most vessels managing just one...

NPFMC Sets New Measures to Reduce Western Alaska Chum Bycatch During Pollock B Season

History was made at last week’s North Pacific Fisheries Management Council meeting convened to address the chum salmon bycatch in the pollock trawl fleets during the summer “B” season.

First, Western Alaska residents who rely on chum salmon as a keystone food in their culture and way of life described their loss to the Council and industry stakeholders who attended the meeting or listened online. Over 200 individuals submitted written comments, testified orally before the 11-member panel, and spoke...

Seasonal Menu Trends and Promotions Shaping Valentine’s and Lent in Foodservice

The ever-changing landscape of marketable events has shifted from the holidays, and the foodservice industry is now focusing on winter and spring specials.

With Valentine’s Day approaching and Lent on the horizon, restaurants are preparing seasonal menus that balance indulgent treats with meat- and seafood-focused options, keeping consumers engaged from mid-February through spring.

Expana's experts have collaborated to provide a price index for customers in both the United States and Europe. Expana's US Valentine's Meal Index, which includes beef tenderloin, lobster tail...

ANALYSIS: France Posts Decade‑High Shrimp Imports in 2025

The French National Directorate of Foreign Trade Statistics has released full‑year 2025 figures for shrimp imports. France imported 137,137 metric tonnes of shrimp last year, worth EUR 889.14 million—up 12.2% in volume and 10.5% in value compared with 2024. This is the highest volume in a decade. The totals cover all shrimp species and product forms, but frozen warm‑water shrimp remain the backbone of the trade: HS code 030617 accounts for 84% of import value...

FDA Puts Ecuadorian Shrimp Producer SONGA on Red List for Salmonella Risk

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has added Sociedad Nacional de Galápagos C.A. (SONGA), a prominent Ecuadorian shrimp producer, to its Import Alert 16-81, which targets seafood products found or suspected to be contaminated with Salmonella. The addition, published February 6, 2026, means SONGA’s shipments destined for the United States will face increased scrutiny and potential detention at the border.

Import Alert 16-81 authorizes the FDA to detain without physical examination (DWPE) seafood products from listed companies when Salmonella contamination is known...

Durham Meat & Seafood Debuts as Holding Group for Seattle Fish, Lombardi Brothers and Other Brands

Seattle Fish Company and Lombardi Brothers Meats, along with Flocchini Family Provisions, Durham Ranch and MacDonald Meat Company, have unified under a single brand: Durham Meat & Seafood. The rebrand was announced on LinkedIn on February 9.

Each operating company will continue to run independently to preserve local relationships and service, the announcement said. Durham Meat & Seafood will serve the foodservice and hospitality, grocery and retail, specialty meat, and national distribution sectors across the five businesses...

NASCAR's Busch Family Reignites Successful StarKist Partnership for a Second Year

In a partnership renewal, the NASCAR family- Kyle, Samantha, and Brexton Busch- is once again joining forces with StarKist, building on a highly successful collaboration last year.

"It's going to be another great year with our friends at StarKist. I grew up with the brand, and I'm a big fan," expressed Kyle Busch. "Daytona sets the tone for a long season with nonstop momentum, and racing 500 miles requires serious focus and energy behind the wheel. I never slow down, so I rely on StarKist's great-tasting...

Canada Launches New Plan For Seafood and Agricultural Sectors to Diversify Markets 

Yesterday, at the annual Policy Breakfast of Food and Beverage Canada, Minister of Agriculture Heath MacDonald announced two new programs to help Canadian food suppliers diversify their markets.

A total of $75 million will be invested in the AgriMarketing Program Market Diversification over 5 years (2026-27 to 2030-31) for the Canadian food sector to better respond to market instability by encouraging greater market diversification.

The action was promised by Canada’s new prime minister, Mark Carney, last September in a speech outlining sweeping economic changes...

UNFI Unveils 2026 Spring and Summer Retail Trends 

As the industry shifts out of the holiday season and into the new year, United Natural Foods (UNFI) has unveiled seasonal trends set to take shape as the weather warms.

The company debuted its 2026 Spring and Summer Trends at its latest retail show, held Feb. 11–12 in Orlando, Fla., with more than 3,400 retailers and suppliers in attendance.

UNFI outlined five trends expected to gain momentum this spring and summer:

1. Health is Wealth: Increased adoption of GLP-1 medications and updated USDA guidelines...

Smoked Fish Producer Big O’Smokehouse Partners With Meijer for Local Endcap Program in Michigan

Michigan-based smoked fish and sausage producer Big O’Smokehouse has partnered with major US retailer Meijer through a local endcap program.

Big O’Smokehouse is a third-generation family-owned business based in the Grand Rapids area. It produces summer sausage, salmon jerky and whitefish dip.

Grandpa O’ and his son, Keith Osterhaven, started Big O’ Smokehouse in 1997, and Keith’s son, Bruce, now leads the company. Bruce’s daughter Ellie manages the operations, and Kendra Higgins leads sales and marketing, Meijer noted in a press release...

A Message from Director of NOAA Fisheries Office of Protected Resource Kim Damon-Randall

Welcome to Whale Week 2026!

Whales are one of nature’s most awe-inspiring animals. Whale watching tours are so popular, in fact, that they boost U.S. coastal economies. And whales serve as vital indicators of the overall health of the ocean. As long-lived, slow-growing species, the health of both individual whales and their populations’ can provide insights into potential changes or stressors in the ocean.

This year, we invite you to take a deeper dive into several key areas about how...

Ag Coalition Highlights USMCA Strength in New Report, Sees Big US Economic Benefits

The Agricultural Coalition for USMCA has released a new report underscoring the pact’s importance to the US farm and seafood sectors. The analysis positions the USMCA as a stabilizing force for rural economies amid rising input costs and volatile markets, noting that exports to Canada and Mexico generated significant US economic activity in 2024.

The report found that agricultural and seafood exports to Canada and Mexico produced $149 billion in total US economic output in 2024, supporting about 493,000 full-time jobs and $36 billion...

Japan: 2025 Surimi Product Exports Increased 5% to JPY 11.2 Billion

According to the Ministry of Finance's trade statistics, exports of surimi products (excluding fish sausages), such as kamaboko, totaled 10,352 tons in 2025, down 0.5% from the previous year and the sixth-highest on record.

Due to the trade embargo, exports to China remained zero, as in the previous year. Meanwhile, exports to the United States, the largest market, increased 2% year-on-year, despite the headwinds posed by Trump's tariffs. Exports to Hong Kong, the second-largest export market, and the...

Kroger Anchors Valentine’s Day Strategy Around Fresh Surf & Turf Offers

For consumers celebrating Valentine's Day at home, surf and turf remains a go-to meal solution, and Kroger is leaning into the occasion with BOGO promotions and limited-time offers across meat, seafood and other complementary categories.

"Quality ingredients are the foundation of any romantic dinner and Kroger consistently delivers on quality and affordability," said Carlo Baldan, Group Vice President of Fresh Merchandising at Kroger. "Our meat and seafood counters feature premium cuts and fresh selections that feel like a night out...

Smashburger Rolls Out Shrimp Menu In Time For Lent

Smash Burger is ready for Lenten season and prepared to offer consumers variety with its new shrimp lineup available for a limited time.

"Our new shrimp lineup is more than a seasonal addition. It reflects our commitment to meeting guests where they are and giving them fresh reasons to choose Smashburger," said Jim Sullivan, CEO of Smashburger. "Taste has always been at the heart of our brand and our greatest competitive advantage. By introducing high‑quality, flavor‑forward seafood options for Lent, we're reinforcing our leadership...

Cracker Barrel Leans Into Spring with New and Returning Seasonal Items

Cracker Barrel is looking ahead to spring with a refreshed menu that blends returning guest favorites with strategic new additions, reinforcing its focus on familiarity and comfort. The update highlights the brand’s continued emphasis on core flavors while layering in limited-time variety to drive traffic.

"Spring has always been a season of coming together, and that sense of connection is at the heart of who we are," said Thomas Yun, Vice President of Menu Strategy and Innovation at Cracker Barrel. "Our spring...

IFFO Announces its 2026 Members’ Meeting in Madrid

The Marine Ingredients Organisation is pleased to announce thatits 2026 Members’ Meeting will take place 27–29 April 2026 in Madrid, Spain, marking the second consecutive year that the Spanish capital hosts this flagship gathering of the global marine ingredients value chain.  

The meeting will bring together industry leaders from across the world to discuss the latest developments related to marine ingredients, market trends, sustainability challenges, innovation, and global supply dynamics... 

US Department of Commerce Sets Preliminary AD Rates for Vietnamese Frozen Fish Fillet Exporters

The US Department of Commerce (Commerce) preliminarily found that two major Vietnamese pangasius exporters, Bien Dong Seafood Co., Ltd. and NTSF Seafoods Joint Stock Company, sold product at less than normal value during the August 1, 2023, - July 31, 2024 review period.

In total, Commerce found four companies were eligible for a separate antidumping rate in its preliminary review published in the Federal Register on February 11. It also rescinded the review for 16 firms with no shipments, and preliminarily rescinded for 24 others and the...

Mowi Sees 8.3% Growth in Harvest Volume for 2026, Reaffirms Outlook Despite Market Pressures

Mowi closed 2025 with record-high revenues of EUR 5.73 billion ($6.80 billion) and harvest volumes of 559,000 metric tons (MT), capping a year of consistent operational gains despite industry-wide supply pressures that depressed salmon prices throughout the year.

“I am delighted that we are delivering on our strategy and am impressed yet again by the way this whole organisation constantly strives for both record volumes and record revenues throughout the value chain. It is also pleasing to see that costs...

Broad Coalition Urges Congress to Reject Offshore Aquaculture Bill

More than 420 organizations, businesses and community leaders this month sent a joint letter to Congress urging lawmakers to reject the Marine Aquaculture Research for America Act of 2025 (MARA Act). The signatories include commercial fishing groups, conservation and advocacy organizations, farmers and local community leaders.

Critics say the bill’s emphasis on “research” would effectively open the door to industrial‑scale fish farms in US federal waters. “MARA creates a one‑way road to permanent, large‑scale offshore fish farms, with no off‑ramps,” said Don’t Cage Our Oceans (DCO2)...

Higgins Urges Trump Administration to Protect US Shrimp Industry in New India Trade Deal

Louisiana Congressman Clay Higgins has addressed a letter to President Trump and senior cabinet officials, advocating for enhanced protections of the domestic shrimp industry following the new trade agreement framework between the US and India, which includes lower tariffs on Indian seafood.

In his letter, Congressman Higgins underscores how vital the wild-caught seafood industry is to Louisiana residents, cautioning that lowering tariffs on Indian imports could flood the market with farm-raised shrimp of less quality.

He pointed out...

McDonald’s Reports Strong US Momentum, Sustained Global Comp Growth

McDonald’s reported fourth-quarter results showing broad-based comparable sales growth across all segments, supported by traffic gains and value positioning, while maintaining operating momentum despite restructuring costs.

"McDonald's value leadership is working," said Chairman and CEO Chris Kempczinski. "By listening to customers and taking action, we have improved traffic and strengthened our value & affordability scores. That focus helped increase global systemwide sales by 8% and delivered strong comp sales growth across all segments this quarter. The momentum we've built reinforces the progress we've made with...

TUNACONS Strengthens the Protection of Galápagos Through FAD Recovery, Biodegradable Solutions

The TUNACONS Foundation continues to implement the “Cuidando Galápagos” initiative, which includes a prevention and early-response framework aimed at reducing environmental risks associated with drifting fish aggregating devices (FADs) and strengthening the protection of sensitive ecosystems in the Archipelago.

An operational protocol based on monitoring and local action

“Cuidando Galápagos” is activated through an alert protocol supported by satellite monitoring, trajectory analysis, and direct coordination with the associated fleet. When a potential drift or grounding risk is detected, coordination is triggered with a local recovery team in the...

Highwood Harbor Acquires Major US Importer Eastern Fish Company

Highwood Harbor, a seafood holding company owned by Jordan Mazzetta, has acquired Eastern Fish Company, one of the largest US importers of shrimp and frozen seafood. The move expands Highwood's sourcing, marketing and distribution capabilities across North America and globally.

Eastern Fish Company, which marked its 50th anniversary in 2024, has grown into a significant supplier of shrimp, scallops, crab, salmon and other seafood to major retail chains, foodservice operators, and distributors.

Following Highwood's acquisition model, Eastern Fish will operate as a standalone entity, preserving its existing business structure. Eric Bloom...

The Retail Rundown: Beef Leads Valentine’s Protein Features as Lobster Prices Ease

Beef tops protein feature volume this week, accounting for 25.1% of ad space. Seafood follows at 23.6%, with pork at 23.1% and chicken at 22.1%. Egg promotions fell to just 2% of total protein ads, down four points from the prior week amid softening retail demand.

Steaks dominate Valentine’s beef promotions, representing 40% of all beef features. Ribeyes, T-bones, and boneless strip filets lead the lineup, and all at sizable premiums compared to last year.

According to Expana’s US Valentine’s Day Index, tenderloin prices have eased month-over-month...

Red Lobster CEO Damola Adamolekun Named to Washington Post’s Next 50 List for 2026

Red Lobster's CEO, Damola Adamolekun, has been named to the Washington Post’s Next 50 List for 2026. The list highlights 50 individuals who are “reshaping how America thinks, works, connects and creates.” The publication said those included will define the stories of 2026.

Adamolekun, 36, has already made a significant impact at Red Lobster. He spearheaded a major menu update, including a renewed focus on seafood boils and revamped promotions. He was first named CEO in September 2024, ushering in a new era for the seafood...

Daniel Suddaby Departs Global Tuna Alliance Following Board Direction Shift

The Global Tuna Alliance (GTA) parted ways with Executive Director Daniel Suddaby, the group announced on February 9.

Suddaby wrote on LinkedIn that his time with the alliance has ended, citing a Board decision to change direction.

The Board thanked Suddaby for his efforts in managing global tuna fisheries.

“Over the past three years, it’s been a privilege to work with an outstanding team and a committed group of Partners to help grow GTA from a small...

UK Supermarkets See Sales of Sustainable Seafood Soar

UK retailers enjoyed rapid growth in sales of certified sustainable seafood last year (2024-25) thanks in large part to almost two thirds (63%) of wild caught fish and seafood products now carrying the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) ecolabel. There are now almost 1,000 (948) MSC labelled products sold under supermarkets’ own brands.

The £1.7bn consumers spent on 189,000 tonnes of MSC labelled products represents a 14% increase on the previous year, according to the MSC UK and Ireland Market Report which is published today...

Habit Burger Introduces New Baja Crispy Fish Sandwich and Fish Fridays In Time For Lent

Habit Burger is offering something for everyone this Lent with the introduction of its new Baja Crispy Fish Sandwich and Fish Fridays.

From February 18 through April 28, Habit is debuting its Baja Crispy Fish Sandwich, featuring wild Alaskan Cod complemented by cilantro lime coleslaw and finished with Habit’s signature bold Baja sauce.

"This sandwich is all about texture and freshness," said Chef Jason Triail, Director of Culinary Innovation at Habit. "You’ve got that light, crispy crunch from the beer-battered cod...

NOAA Releases 2023 Fisheries of the US and Economics Reports; Seafood Consumption Dips

NOAA Fisheries' two flagship reports — 2023 Fisheries of the United States and 2023 Fisheries Economics of the United States — were released yesterday, presenting data and trends from 2023. 

Key takeaways from the report include: 

- In 2023, U.S. commercial fishing, seafood, and recreational fishing supported 2.1 million full- and part-time jobs, generated $319 billion in sales impacts, and contributed $148 billion to gross domestic product.

- Total landings revenues in 2023 decreased 16 percent to $5.1 billion in inflation-adjusted 2023 dollars, primarily...