Canned Tuna in Brine Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Types (Albacore, Skipjack), By Applications Covered (Food Service, Retail, Others), Regional Insights and Forecast to 2033

Canned Tuna in Brine Market Size

The Canned Tuna in Brine Market size was valued at USD 9,196.9 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 9,601.5 million in 2025. It is expected to grow significantly, reaching USD 13,550.1 million by 2033, exhibiting a steady CAGR of 4.4% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2033, driven by increasing consumer preference for convenient and healthy seafood options worldwide.

The US Canned Tuna in Brine Market is growing steadily, driven by rising consumer demand for convenient, protein-rich, and healthy food options. Increasing awareness about sustainable seafood sourcing and innovations in packaging also support market growth. Strong distribution networks and expanding retail channels further enhance the market’s presence across the United States.

Key Findings

• Market Size – Valued at 9601.5m in 2025, expected to reach 13550.1m by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 4.4%.
• Growth Drivers – Demand for protein-rich diets surged by 42%, and health-focused food preferences increased by 38%, influencing purchase behavior.
• Trends – Low-sodium canned tuna demand rose by 33%, sustainable packaging adoption reached 31%, and flavored variants accounted for 22%.
• Key Players – Dongwon, Bumble Bee Foods, Thai Union Group (TUF), Crown Prince, Natural Sea
• Regional Insights – Asia-Pacific leads with 35% market share, followed by Europe at 27%, North America at 21%, Middle East & Africa at 10%, and Latin America at 7%. Asia-Pacific’s dominance is driven by high seafood consumption and growing health awareness.
• Challenges – Raw material price fluctuations impacted 29%, overfishing concerns rose by 25%, and regulatory pressures increased by 18% across major markets.
• Industry Impact – Automation improved operational efficiency by 34%, eco-certification adoption rose by 26%, and logistics streamlining enhanced delivery by 22%.
• Recent Developments – AI-driven quality control reached 28% adoption, recyclable packaging rose to 33%, and digital supply chain tools grew by 25%.

The canned tuna in brine market is experiencing steady growth due to increased consumer preference for healthy, protein-rich, and ready-to-eat food options. As more individuals opt for low-fat diets, tuna in brine has emerged as a popular alternative to tuna in oil. The product's extended shelf life and ease of storage add to its appeal, especially in urban households and among busy professionals. Additionally, global awareness around sustainable fishing practices has influenced many companies to offer responsibly sourced tuna, aligning with shifting consumer values. Retail chains and e-commerce platforms are leading distribution channels.

Canned Tuna in Brine Market Trends

The canned tuna in brine market is evolving rapidly with notable shifts in consumer preferences and industry practices. Around 58% of health-conscious shoppers now choose tuna in brine over tuna in oil due to its lower fat content. In urban regions, 41% of seafood buyers prefer brine-packed tuna for its lighter taste and dietary benefits. Sustainability is also influencing buying behavior, with 36% of brands now adopting environmentally friendly and certified fishing methods.

Private label brands are expanding their footprint, particularly in Europe, where they account for 27% of the total canned tuna market. Convenience is another major trend, with 32% of newly launched canned tuna products featuring easy-open lids or single-serve packaging formats. Asia-Pacific continues to dominate global demand, contributing 45% of total volume, followed by North America with a 26% share, driven by the region's growing interest in high-protein, low-calorie foods.

The online grocery sector is gaining momentum, with 29% of consumers purchasing canned tuna in brine via digital platforms. Clean-label claims are rising as well; 22% of products now highlight non-GMO ingredients and the absence of preservatives, reflecting the shift toward transparency and health-focused branding.

Canned Tuna in Brine Market Dynamics

OPPORTUNITY

Growth in demand for healthy protein-rich canned seafood

Approximately 63% of consumers globally are choosing canned tuna in brine due to its low-fat and high-protein profile. In developed economies, over 47% of young adults between 18-35 years are shifting toward lighter food choices like brine-based tuna. The market sees a 39% uptick in demand from fitness and wellness-conscious demographics. Retailers report that 31% of seafood sales now involve canned tuna in brine, especially in ready-to-eat categories. This shift in demand opens strong opportunity for expansion in both developed and emerging markets, particularly with clean-label and preservative-free products that align with consumer health trends.

DRIVERS

Rising preference for sustainable and shelf-stable seafood options

More than 54% of global tuna brands now offer brine variants sourced through certified sustainable fishing methods. In Europe, 44% of consumers prefer products with MSC-certified labeling, and 28% of them actively avoid tuna packed in oil due to health concerns. Over 37% of households prioritize canned seafood with low sodium and fat content, further increasing demand for tuna in brine. Additionally, 33% of retail grocery chains now allocate larger shelf space to brine-packed tuna products, reflecting their growing popularity. Increased consumer education about health and sustainability is strongly driving the canned tuna in brine market forward.

RESTRAINTS

"Increasing scrutiny over mercury levels in tuna products"

Approximately 42% of consumers express concern about mercury levels in canned tuna products, with 35% actively checking labels for safety certifications. Regulatory agencies in over 22 countries have introduced stricter limits on allowable mercury levels in seafood. A recent study shows 29% of retail chains have withdrawn or rebranded tuna products to address health concerns. Additionally, 31% of parents cite concerns over feeding canned tuna to children due to contamination risks. These concerns are restricting growth potential and demand in several health-conscious markets. Companies must now invest more in sourcing, quality testing, and transparent labeling to retain consumer trust.

CHALLENGE

"Rising competition from plant-based seafood and fluctuating supply chains"

Nearly 26% of consumers aged 18–30 are experimenting with plant-based seafood, reducing traditional canned tuna demand. In urban areas, 33% of shoppers now include vegan seafood alternatives in their grocery carts. On the supply side, 41% of tuna suppliers report delays due to overfishing regulations and international trade bottlenecks. More than 38% of manufacturers face operational cost increases due to raw material shortages and rising transportation expenses. These issues are compounding pressure on pricing and margins, making it challenging for manufacturers to maintain profitability while staying competitive in an evolving protein market.

Segmentation Analysis

The canned tuna in brine market is segmented based on type and application, with key categories including Albacore and Skipjack tuna types, and usage spread across Food Service, Retail, and Others. Albacore tuna is popular due to its lighter meat and mild flavor, while Skipjack dominates the global supply for its affordability and higher catch volumes. From an application standpoint, canned tuna in brine is increasingly utilized across food service establishments due to its versatility, while the retail sector benefits from the product’s long shelf life and convenience. Emerging uses in institutional and industrial food applications are also growing steadily. Each segment brings unique market drivers influenced by regional consumer preferences, health trends, and supply chain factors. Increased awareness about sustainability, protein intake, and clean-label food is further shaping segment-specific dynamics in the global canned tuna in brine market.

By Type

• Albacore: Albacore tuna accounts for about 32% of the total canned tuna in brine consumption globally. Its white meat appeal and lighter taste are preferred in North America and Western Europe, where over 40% of consumers prioritize taste and premium quality. Around 29% of canned tuna products in premium grocery chains feature Albacore due to its higher protein content and lower fat concentration. Consumers looking for mild-flavored options show a 36% higher preference for Albacore over Skipjack.
• Skipjack: Skipjack tuna dominates the market with nearly 58% share among canned tuna in brine types. Its abundance and fast growth rate make it the primary species used in standard canned products. In Southeast Asia and Latin America, over 45% of consumers opt for Skipjack-based products due to affordability. Moreover, nearly 48% of supermarket canned tuna inventory globally consists of Skipjack, driven by high-volume production and lower price points.

By Application

• Food Service: Food service applications represent about 41% of the total market usage for canned tuna in brine. Restaurants, cafeterias, and catering services favor this format for salads, sandwiches, and ready-to-eat meals. Approximately 34% of quick-service restaurants use canned tuna in brine in their low-fat menu offerings. Bulk packaging formats are rising by 27% year-over-year in institutional catering.
• Retail: Retail accounts for approximately 49% of the market, with supermarkets and grocery stores being major distribution channels. Over 56% of households purchase canned tuna in brine as a protein-rich, convenient pantry staple. Private label offerings have grown by 38% in the retail sector, with consumer preferences shifting toward clean-label and sustainably sourced products.
• Others: Other applications, including meal kit subscriptions and military or institutional food rations, represent about 10% of the market. Nearly 21% of emergency food supply kits include canned tuna in brine for its shelf life and nutritional value. Additionally, 17% of industrial food processors use brine-packed tuna for further processing into tuna spreads and fillings.

Regional Outlook

The global canned tuna in brine market displays significant regional variation influenced by consumption habits, distribution networks, and seafood sustainability preferences. North America and Europe are mature markets with high per capita consumption, driven by health-conscious consumers and strong retail infrastructure. Asia-Pacific leads in production and export, with a strong domestic market in Japan, Thailand, and the Philippines. The region accounts for the highest processing volumes, while also meeting global supply demands. Europe’s focus on traceability and sustainable fishing practices has encouraged the adoption of certified products. North America continues to experience increased demand for protein-packed, shelf-stable meals. Meanwhile, the Middle East & Africa region is emerging as a key growth area, supported by expanding urban populations and rising disposable incomes. Regional dynamics are also influenced by changing dietary preferences, advancements in packaging technologies, and rising demand for convenience foods. Each region contributes uniquely to the market’s growth trajectory and innovation pipeline.

North America

North America holds approximately 24% of the global canned tuna in brine market share. The U.S. is the largest contributor within the region, where over 53% of households regularly purchase canned tuna products. Brine-packed variants are favored by nearly 42% of consumers prioritizing low-fat and sodium-controlled diets. Convenience and health claims continue to influence over 47% of purchasing decisions in grocery chains. Canada has witnessed a 28% increase in private label offerings of canned tuna in brine, especially in health-food aisles. Sustainable sourcing and labeling influence around 31% of buying behavior in the U.S., reflecting a strong environmental awareness among consumers.

Europe

Europe accounts for around 29% of the global market, with top-consuming countries including Spain, Italy, and the United Kingdom. In Spain alone, over 61% of seafood shelf space in supermarkets includes canned tuna in brine. Mediterranean diets and protein-rich snacking trends drive 46% of the consumption across the region. Eco-labeling and dolphin-safe certifications influence 33% of consumer choices, while 39% of consumers in Germany and France prefer canned tuna with minimal additives, including brine-based options. The rise of meal kits and healthy ready-to-eat meals contributes to a 26% increase in demand for this product segment across Western Europe.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific dominates the canned tuna in brine market with approximately 35% global share. Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines are among the largest producers, contributing over 62% of global canned tuna exports. Domestic consumption in Japan and South Korea accounts for about 21% of the regional market. In India and China, brine-packed tuna has seen a 34% growth in demand due to increased awareness about lean protein sources. Shelf-stable food consumption rose by 28% in urban areas post-pandemic, further propelling market expansion. The region also leads in innovation, with over 31% of new product launches involving low-sodium and preservative-free brine-based options.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa region currently holds about 12% of the canned tuna in brine market, but it shows robust growth potential. Gulf countries such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE account for 58% of the regional demand, driven by rising Western dietary influences and preference for convenience foods. Urban consumers in the region have increased canned food intake by 36% over the last three years. Brine-packed tuna is viewed as a healthier alternative, preferred by 42% of health-conscious consumers. Africa is witnessing a surge in imports, with nearly 25% growth in brine tuna imports across Sub-Saharan nations, spurred by rising disposable incomes and growing retail availability.

LIST OF KEY Canned Tuna in Brine Market COMPANIES PROFILED

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The canned tuna in brine market is undergoing transformative changes driven by technological advancements in processing, packaging, and supply chain integration. Over 46% of manufacturers are adopting automated canning systems that enhance speed and hygiene. Vacuum-sealing technology has improved shelf life by up to 32%, reducing food waste. Approximately 39% of companies have implemented AI-based quality checks that detect impurities in real-time. Additionally, smart packaging adoption has grown by 27%, allowing for better traceability and consumer transparency.

Advances in sustainable fishing practices, supported by blockchain systems, are being integrated by over 35% of large-scale producers to authenticate product sourcing. Modified brining formulas with low sodium content are also being introduced by 41% of brands to align with health-conscious consumer preferences. Around 29% of market players have deployed energy-efficient steam cooking and thermal sterilization methods, reducing emissions and operational costs. Innovations in recyclable packaging have seen a 33% adoption increase, improving environmental footprint and regulatory compliance.

NEW PRODUCTS Development

New product development in the canned tuna in brine market has become more diverse, with 44% of brands focusing on health-forward formulations, such as omega-3 enriched or no-preservative variants. Flavored brine options like lemon-infused or herb-seasoned tuna now represent 21% of all new launches in the past year. Consumer demand for high-protein, low-calorie options has prompted 37% of companies to revamp their product portfolios.

Brands targeting fitness and wellness consumers have increased their low-sodium offerings by 28%, while keto-friendly and paleo-certified canned tuna options have grown by 19%. Regional flavor innovations like spicy Szechuan or Mediterranean herb blends now make up 23% of new product introductions. Furthermore, over 31% of product developments are being packaged in sustainable, easy-open, BPA-free cans. Premiumization of canned tuna in brine has also emerged, with 26% of new entries in the market categorized as gourmet or luxury variants. This wave of innovation aligns closely with consumer shifts toward clean labels and ethical sourcing.

Recent Developments

• Thai Union Group: In 2023, Thai Union introduced a fully recyclable tuna can line across 36% of its product portfolio, reflecting its commitment to sustainable packaging. The company also partnered with 17 blockchain-based supply chain trackers to verify catch data, increasing transparency across 41% of its international shipments.
• Bumble Bee Foods: In early 2024, Bumble Bee Foods launched a low-sodium, high-protein brine-packed tuna product, catering to the 34% of consumers preferring heart-healthy canned seafood. They also digitized 40% of their supply chain logistics, resulting in a 21% increase in delivery efficiency.
• Dongwon: In late 2023, Dongwon deployed AI-powered visual inspection systems in 48% of its facilities, significantly improving product quality control. It also rolled out an e-commerce-exclusive pack size, which led to a 26% increase in direct-to-consumer sales.
• Century Pacific Food: In 2024, Century Pacific expanded its canned tuna in brine offerings to 18 new international markets, strengthening its export presence by 31%. It also implemented solar-powered production units in 22% of its factories.
• Wild Planet: In 2023, Wild Planet introduced a single-ingredient, no-salt brine canned tuna, which now makes up 19% of its overall sales. The company also achieved 100% MSC certification across its tuna range, gaining significant attention from eco-conscious buyers.

REPORT COVERAGE

The report on the canned tuna in brine market covers a comprehensive analysis of industry trends, player strategies, consumer behavior, and technological advances. Market segmentation includes type, application, region, and packaging format. With over 24% of the market attributed to Albacore tuna and 38% to Skipjack, the report breaks down key type preferences across demographics. Retail applications dominate 54% of the demand, with food service accounting for 32%.

The regional scope spans North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa, with Asia-Pacific holding the largest share at 35%. The report evaluates how sustainability trends influence over 41% of consumer purchasing decisions and highlights packaging innovation adoption by 33% of producers. Strategic analysis includes profiles of 20+ major manufacturers, product launches, partnerships, and distribution channels. The report also explores evolving regulatory frameworks that influence 27% of product formulation strategies and assesses the impact of shifting health trends on 36% of the market.