Salmon overtakes Cod as UK’s favourite fish

Salmon beats cod as the most popular fish for health-conscious Brits who are eating more seafood than ever before. A poll of 4,000 people by Nobilo Wines, to coincide with National Seafood Week, found that 58% of us are eating more seafood than five years ago with two thirds (65%) citing health reasons.

The same proportion (66%) said that media reports on the benefits of seafood have influenced their eating habits - nutrition experts say we should be eating a minimum of two portions of fish every week.

According to the research, Brits are turning away from traditional fish and chip shop favourites such as cod, haddock and plaice in favour of salmon, prawns and even lobster. 62% say they are eating a wider variety of seafood than five years ago. Salmon, which is popular because of its high protein and low fat levels, beat cod to the top spot, while prawns came third. Tuna is the fourth most popular fish, closely followed by haddock. Adventurous Brits voted the exotic lobster into sixth place.

50% of respondents said that holidays abroad have influenced the type of fish and seafood they now enjoy at home. Almost 90 per cent of those surveyed believe people are becoming healthier and finding new and healthier ways to cook fish, such as grilling and steaming, in favour of more traditional deep frying.

Clare Griffiths, spokesperson for Nobilo Wines, said: “It is clear that while traditional fish and chips remains an iconic British meal, we are expanding our culinary horizons and finding new ways to enjoy seafood. There is a real overseas influence with dishes like sushi and paella becoming increasingly popular.”

Wine is the most popular drink with seafood reflecting a cultural shift from fish and chips wrapped in yesterday’s papers to seafood with wine as part of a culinary occasion. An honest 29 per cent of those surveyed admit the main reason for their love of fish meals is simply because it is easy and quick to cook.

Clare Griffiths, spokesperson for Nobilo Wines, continued: “These days, more people than ever are enjoying cooking up delicious dishes like salmon steaks or pan-fried seabass and sitting back to enjoy it with a glass of sauvignon blanc.”

Top 10 fish

1. Salmon
2. Cod
3. Prawns
4. Tuna
5. Haddock
6. Lobster
7. Mackerel
8. Scampi
9. Seabass
10. Plaice

• Londoners and Geordies eat most fish
• 17% still eat seafood as a traditional Friday dinner
• Norwich, Bristol and Cardiff have the most Fish & Chips lovers
• Aberystwyth is the Prawn Cocktail Capital of the Country
• Wine is the most popular drink with seafood

For more information, visit Nobilo.co.nz.