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Tomislav Radić

Croats changing their habits

The consumption of fish in Croatia and in the EU points to increasing changes in eating habits and growing awareness of health.

"Increasing awareness of the health benefits of fish consumption, the increasing popularity of the Mediterranean diet and the growing demand for sustainable products are the key factors driving this positive trend," said Lee Pleše, category manager of Bosnić d.o.o. company, part of the ORKA Group. Pleše adds that with the increase in the amount of farmed fish and its increasing availability, fish has become more financially acceptable and available for the household budget.

The health benefits of fish consumption are increasingly recognised, such as the high content of omega-3 fatty acids, proteins and other essential nutrients. This has led to an increase in demand for fish and seafood, especially among younger generations who are aware of the importance of a healthy diet. The combination of different culinary traditions is also gaining popularity. Fusion dishes like sushi burritos, Thai-style fish tacos and surf and turf are becoming a trend among the younger generations. ORKA Group is leading this trend by opening specialised seafood delicatessen stores Fisheri, promoting innovative dishes that combine seafood with meat. Sea-to-table experiences are also increasingly in demand, as consumers want to know where their fish comes from and how it was caught.

The rise in fish consumption in Croatia is evidenced by the latest available Eurostat data from 2021, which say that the average Croat eats 20.8 kilograms of fish per year. This is an increase compared to previous years, when this figure was 18.5 kilograms per person. In the EU, consumer habits are also changing. According to Eurostat data, fish consumption in the EU shows a slight increase over the years, from an average of 22 kg per person in 2015 to 24 kg per person per year. Consumption varies significantly among member countries, so Portugal leads with a high of 59 kg per inhabitant per year, while the lowest consumption is in the Czech Republic with only 6 kg per person per year.

The summer of 2024 will bring an expected increase in demand for fresh and frozen fish, ORKA Group predicts. They emphasize that this is especially pronounced in tourist destinations where restaurants record increased demand for popular types of fish such as sea bream, sea bass and blue fish.

Photos: ORKA

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