Seafood is often considered one of the most luxurious foods out there, and rightfully so! Many people enjoy the taste of seafood, and there are many health benefits to eating it as well. So why do prices for seafood keep going up? And what can you do to make sure you’re getting the best deal possible?
Why Seafood is in High Demand
According to The New York Times, seafood is in high demand because of the global recession and its effects on the fishing industry. Further, climate change has led to an increase in sea temperatures and a decrease in ocean productivity, which affects fish populations.
This scarcity of seafood has led to larger prices for the best quality items. For example, lobster is now fetching $40 per pound at some restaurants, up from $2 per pound just five years ago. The high price of seafood is also attributable to federal subsidies that have allowed overfishing and pollution to continue unchecked. These subsidies are now being eliminated, but will likely result in even higher seafood prices in the near future.
When you think of seafood, what comes to mind? Chances are, if you’re like most people, you imagine fresh, delicious seafood that’s either cooked in a simple way or served raw. In reality, seafood is in high demand due to its nutritional value and its versatility when it comes to cooking.
Seafood is rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for overall health. It’s also a good source of vitamins B12 and D, magnesium, potassium, and selenium. Not to mention, seafood is a great source of antioxidants that can help reduce the risk of heart disease and other illnesses.
While seafood is always in high demand, the prices have increased significantly over the past few years. This is due to factors like global warming which has led to an increase in oceanic temperatures and thus an increase in marine life; along with overfishing which has diminished the populations of many marine species.
Fortunately, there are ways that you can still enjoy some delicious seafood without breaking the bank. For example, frozen Seafood items such as crab legs or shrimp are often just as good (or better) than their fresh counterparts.
Why Seafood Prices Are So High
Seafood prices are high, and there is a good reason for it. The global seafood market is worth an estimated $165 billion, according to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). But despite this huge market, the seafood industry is in trouble.
Overfishing has caused stocks of certain types of seafood to dwindle, while demand from growing economies has led to an increase in the number of fish farms. In addition, a rise in sea temperatures is causing marine animals to migrate away from their usual habitats, disrupting food chains. As a result of all these factors, seafood prices are on the rise.
If you’re looking to enjoy some high-quality seafood at a reasonable price, you need to buy it now. Here are four reasons why seafood prices are so high:
1. Overfishing: Overfishing is one of the main drivers of rising seafood prices. Since the 1990s, stocks of many types of fish have declined due to overharvesting. This includes tuna, mackerel, swordfish, cod and other types of white-fleshed fish.
2. Climate Change: Another factor contributing to high seafood prices is climate.
Ways to Cut Costs When Purchasing Seafood
In today’s economy, it can be difficult to afford the best seafood. However, there are ways to save money when purchasing seafood. Here are a few tips:
-Shop at local markets: Local markets typically have lower prices on seafood than chain stores.
-Look for deals: Many times, seafood vendors will offer discounts for bulk purchases.
-Consider frozen seafood: Frozen seafood is a great option for budget-minded chefs because it is cheaper and has less environmental impact than fresh seafood.
Our Recommendation: Buy From Woolworths
When it comes to seafood, quality is always key. And while it may be tempting to simply snap up whatever’s cheapest, this could actually be the worst decision you make when it comes to seafood. Why? Quality seafood often costs more than its lower-quality counterparts. But why is this the case?
The answer largely has to do with the way seafood is sourced and handled. The best seafood is typically caught in fresh, clean water by skilled fishermen. This means that the fish itself is of a high quality, as are the waters in which it was caught. Meanwhile, lower-quality seafood is often caught in dirty or polluted waters, meaning that the fish itself may be unhealthy and/or not of great quality. This means that even if the seafood is cheap, it likely isn’t worth buying because you’re likely getting tired of eating unhealthy food.
So what should you do if you want to buy high-quality seafood? Our recommendation is to stick to reputable brands such as Woolworths. Not only do they source their seafood from reputable sources, but they also ensure that their products are cooked properly so that they don’t contain any harmful bacteria.