Demand for Plant-Based Fish in EU

Demand for Plant-Based Fish in EU Size, Market Forecast and Outlook By FMI

The demand for plant-based fish in eu was valued at USD 57.3 million in 2025, projected to reach USD 156.3 million in 2026, and is forecast to expand to USD 376.8 million by 2036 at a 9.2% CAGR. The absolute dollar expansion over the forecast period, at 9.2% CAGR, reflects rapid growth from a small base as plant-based fish transitions from specialty vegan retail to mainstream supermarket distribution. Fillets lead product type at 45% share, as the format most recognizable to conventional fish consumers and the easiest to integrate into existing cooking habits. Soy-based protein dominates source at 68% share, providing the protein density and textural base required for fish-analogue products, though wheat-based and pea-based formulations are gaining ground in clean-label-positioned ranges.

As per FMI, the EU plant-based fish market operates at the intersection of two consumer motivations: sustainability concern (overfishing, bycatch, ocean plastic) and allergen avoidance (fish is one of the EU 14 regulated allergens). Unlike plant-based meat, which competes primarily on taste and price against beef and pork, plant-based fish benefits from the additional allergen-avoidance demand channel that expands the addressable consumer base beyond vegan and flexitarian demographics.

All major EU markets reflect differentiated growth. France at 9.5%, Spain at 9.5%, Netherlands at 9.4%, Italy at 9.4%, Rest of Europe at 9.0%, Germany at 8.8%. France sets the pace, while Germany registers steadier growth.

Summary of Demand for Plant-Based Fish in EU

• Demand for Plant-Based Fish in EU Definition
  • Plant-based fish encompasses food products formulated from plant proteins (soy, wheat, pea) and other plant-derived ingredients to replicate the taste, texture, and cooking properties of conventional fish and seafood products. The category includes plant-based fillets, burger patties, crumbles and grounds, and other formats designed as direct substitutes for white fish, tuna, salmon, and processed seafood items.
• Demand Drivers in the Market
  • Seafood sustainability consumer awareness: EU consumer awareness of overfishing, bycatch, and ocean ecosystem degradation is creating a demand pull for plant-based fish alternatives that deliver familiar seafood flavour and cooking experience without the environmental footprint of wild-caught or farmed fish production.
  • Fish allergen avoidance demand channel: Fish and shellfish are among the EU 14 regulated allergens under Regulation 1169/2011, and consumers managing fish allergies represent a structurally underserved market that plant-based fish products address directly, expanding the addressable consumer base beyond dietary-choice purchasers.
  • Supermarket distribution expansion: Major EU grocery chains are allocating refrigerated and frozen shelf space to plant-based fish alongside conventional fish products, enabling mainstream consumer discovery and impulse trial that specialty vegan stores could not achieve at scale.
• Key Segments Analyzed in the FMI Report
  • Soy-based Protein: 68.0% share in 2026 by Source.
  • Supermarkets: 56.0% share in 2026 by Distribution Channel.
  • France: 9.5% compound growth, the fastest among tracked EU markets.
• Analyst Opinion at FMI
  • Nandini Roy Choudhury, Principal Consultant for Food & Beverage analysts observe that the EU plant-based fish market is 3 to 5 years behind plant-based meat in consumer adoption, which means brands entering now are building the category rather than competing within it. The first-mover advantage accrues to brands that solve the texture problem: achieving the flaky, moist fibre structure of white fish using plant protein extrusion. Brands that achieve this texture parity will capture the mainstream consumer trial that converts occasional purchasers into repeat buyers. The allergen avoidance demand channel is the underappreciated growth vector, providing a structurally motivated consumer segment that plant-based meat does not access.
• Strategic Implications / Executive Takeaways
  • Procurement teams must map EU regulatory pathways as classification, labelling, and health claim rules vary by product type and application.
  • Product development should evaluate premium positioning opportunities where quality differentiation captures higher retail pricing.
  • Supply chain managers must diversify sourcing and maintain inventory buffers to mitigate origin-concentration and seasonal risks.

Demand for Plant-Based Fish in EU Key Takeaways

Metric	Details
Industry Size (2026)	USD 156.3 million
Industry Value (2036)	USD 376.8 million
CAGR (2026 to 2036)	9.2%

Source: Future Market Insights, 2026

Demand for Plant-Based Fish in EU Definition

Plant-based fish encompasses food products formulated from plant proteins (soy, wheat, pea) and other plant-derived ingredients to replicate the taste, texture, and cooking properties of conventional fish and seafood products. The category includes plant-based fillets, burger patties, crumbles and grounds, and other formats designed as direct substitutes for white fish, tuna, salmon, and processed seafood items.

Demand for Plant-Based Fish in EU Inclusions

The report covers EU regional market sizes for plant-based fish from 2026 to 2036. Segment analysis includes product type (fillets, burger patty, crumbles and grounds, others), source (soy-based protein, wheat-based protein, others), and distribution channel (supermarkets, specialty food stores, convenience stores, others). Country coverage includes France, Spain, Netherlands, Italy, Germany, and rest of Europe.

Demand for Plant-Based Fish in EU Exclusions

The scope excludes conventional fish and seafood products. Cell-cultured (cultivated) fish is excluded as a separate regulatory and technology category. Plant-based shrimp and shellfish analogues are excluded unless marketed under a combined plant-based fish brand.

Demand for Plant-Based Fish in EU Research Methodology

• Primary Research: Structured interviews with procurement directors, formulation engineers, and regulatory managers.
• Desk Research: Aggregated EU regulatory filings, trade publications, company reports, and Eurostat data.
• Market-Sizing and Forecasting: Bottom-up aggregation of production, trade, and consumption with country-level pricing adjustments.
• Data Validation: Cross-validated against company disclosures and EU trade statistics.

Why is the Demand for Plant-Based Fish in EU Growing

Industry expansion is being supported by the rapid evolution in food technology capabilities across European companies and the corresponding demand for sustainable protein sources that address environmental concerns while maintaining nutritional value and culinary versatility. Modern food manufacturers increasingly invest in research and development to create plant-based fish products that deliver authentic taste, flaky texture, and ocean-fresh experience, driving demand for products that address multiple consumer needs including environmental sustainability, health optimization, and ethical consumption without compromising on sensory satisfaction.

The growing body of scientific research demonstrating the environmental impact of commercial fishing and the health risks associated with mercury and microplastic contamination in traditional seafood is driving demand for clean, sustainable alternatives from manufacturers with appropriate innovation credentials and quality certifications. Environmental organizations and health authorities are increasingly highlighting the benefits of plant-based seafood, including reduced ocean depletion, lower carbon footprint, and elimination of contaminant risks. Scientific studies are providing evidence supporting plant-based fish benefits, including comparable protein content, enhanced omega-3 profiles through algae-based fortification, and absence of heavy metals, requiring specialized formulations that address the unique nutritional and sensory demands of seafood alternatives distinct from other plant-based proteins.

Segmental Analysis

Sales are segmented by product type, source, distribution channel, and country. By product type, demand is divided into fillets, burger patty, crumbles & grounds, and others. Based on source, sales are categorized into soy-based protein, wheat-based protein, and others. In terms of distribution channel, demand is segmented into supermarkets, specialty food stores, convenience stores, and others. Regionally, demand is focused on Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, and the Rest of Europe.

By Product Type, Fillets Segment Accounts for 45.0% Share

The fillets segment is projected to account for 45.0% of EU plant-based fish sales in 2026, increasing slightly to 46.0% by 2036, establishing itself as the foundational category addressing core culinary applications in European cuisine. This commanding position is fundamentally supported by consumer preference for familiar formats that integrate seamlessly into traditional recipes, established cooking methods that work with fillet structures, and versatility across multiple preparation styles from grilling to baking. The segment delivers comprehensive culinary solutions, providing consumers with plant-based alternatives suitable for fish and chips, fish tacos, sandwich applications, and fine dining presentations essential for mainstream adoption.

Key advantages:

• Versatile culinary applications across cuisines
• Familiar format reducing adoption barriers
• Premium positioning enabling value capture

By Source, Soy-based Protein Accounts for 68.0% Share

Soy-based protein is positioned to represent 68.0% of total plant-based fish demand across European operations in 2026, moderating slightly to 66.0% by 2036, reflecting the ingredient's dominance as the primary protein source for seafood alternatives. This considerable share directly demonstrates that soy protein's functional properties, including texture formation, moisture binding, and flavor neutrality, make it ideal for seafood applications.

Modern manufacturers increasingly optimize soy protein processing to achieve specific textural attributes, driving demand for products featuring advanced extrusion technologies, proprietary structuring techniques, and enhanced nutritional profiles. The segment benefits from continuous innovation focused on non-GMO sourcing, allergen management protocols, and combination with complementary proteins enhancing amino acid profiles and reducing soy flavor notes common in earlier generation products.

Key drivers:

• Functional properties enabling texture creation
• Established supply chains ensuring availability
• Cost-effectiveness supporting market accessibility

By Distribution Channel, Supermarkets Maintain 56.0% Share

Supermarkets are strategically estimated to control 56.0% of total European plant-based fish sales in 2026, declining to 53.0% by 2036, reflecting the channel's importance for mainstream market penetration while facing growing competition from specialty and online channels. European supermarket chains consistently provide accessible environments for plant-based fish purchases, offering convenient shopping, competitive pricing, and integrated placement alongside traditional seafood creating comparison opportunities.

The segment provides essential touchpoints through dedicated plant-based sections where consumers discover new products, frozen aisles offering extended shelf life, and fresh counters providing premium alternatives. Major European retailers including Carrefour, Tesco, Aldi, and Albert Heijn systematically expand plant-based seafood selections, often featuring promotional activities and educational materials supporting category development.

Success factors:

• Mainstream accessibility driving volume
• Competitive pricing through scale
• Cross-merchandising opportunities

What are the Drivers, Restraints, and Key Trends

EU plant-based fish sales are advancing rapidly due to increasing environmental consciousness regarding ocean sustainability, growing health concerns about contaminants in traditional seafood, and rising flexitarian populations seeking protein diversification. The industry faces challenges, including taste and texture gaps compared to traditional fish, premium pricing limiting mainstream adoption, and consumer skepticism about processed alternatives. Continued innovation in formulation science and sensory optimization remains central to industry development.

Advancement of Cellular Agriculture Technologies

The rapidly accelerating development of cellular agriculture and precision fermentation technologies is fundamentally transforming plant-based seafood from simple protein substitutes to sophisticated biomimetic products, enabling authentic replication previously unattainable through conventional plant processing. Advanced fermentation platforms featuring marine microalgae cultivation, heme protein production, and omega-3 synthesis allow companies to create products delivering genuine seafood flavors, nutritional profiles, and cooking behaviors with precision meeting culinary expectations. These technological innovations prove particularly transformative for premium applications, sushi-grade alternatives, and whole-muscle products where traditional plant-based methods inadequately replicate seafood complexity.

Major food technology companies invest heavily in fermentation facilities, strain development programs, and bioprocess optimization, recognizing that cellular technologies represent breakthrough solutions for authenticity challenges and nutritional enhancement. Companies collaborate with biotechnology firms, research institutions, and culinary experts to develop scalable production systems that balance innovation benefits with commercial viability and regulatory compliance supporting sustainable business models.

Integration of Ocean-Positive Positioning

Modern plant-based fish producers systematically incorporate ocean conservation messaging, marine ecosystem protection, and sustainable fishing advocacy into brand positioning, recognizing environmental impact as primary purchase motivation requiring authentic commitment beyond product attributes. Strategic integration of sustainability credentials enables manufacturers to address consumer values through transparent impact metrics including carbon footprint reduction, water usage optimization, and biodiversity protection where plant-based alternatives demonstrate measurable environmental benefits. These sustainability initiatives prove essential for brand differentiation, as conscious consumers increasingly evaluate products based on comprehensive environmental impact affecting both purchasing decisions and brand loyalty.

Companies implement extensive sustainability programs investigating supply chain impacts, packaging innovations, and carbon neutrality pathways, including lifecycle assessments, renewable energy adoption, and regenerative agriculture partnerships. Manufacturers leverage environmental positioning in marketing communications, highlighting ocean preservation benefits, carbon reduction achievements, and ecosystem restoration support, positioning products as activism vehicles beyond dietary choices.

Growing Emphasis on Nutritional Optimization

European consumers increasingly demand nutritional equivalence or superiority compared to traditional seafood, driving manufacturers toward comprehensive fortification strategies and bioavailability enhancement that aligns with health optimization priorities. This nutritional trend enables companies to build credibility through scientific substantiation, command premium pricing through health positioning, and differentiate products in competitive markets where nutritional density influences purchase decisions. Nutritional optimization proves particularly important for health-conscious consumers where protein quality, omega-3 content, and micronutrient profiles directly determine product selection and consumption frequency.

The development of algae-based omega-3 systems, vitamin B12 fortification, and mineral enhancement expands manufacturers' abilities to meet nutritional demands while maintaining clean labels and natural positioning. Brands collaborate with nutrition scientists, clinical researchers, and health professionals to develop evidence-based formulations balancing nutritional goals with sensory acceptance, supporting premium positioning while meeting regulatory requirements and consumer expectations.

Europe Market Split by Country

EU plant-based fish sales are projected to grow from USD 143.1 million in 2026 to USD 345 million by 2036, registering a robust CAGR of 9.2% over the forecast period. France is expected to demonstrate a strong growth trajectory with a 9.5% CAGR, supported by sophisticated culinary culture, environmental consciousness, and early adoption of plant-based innovations. Spain follows with 9.5% CAGR, attributed to Mediterranean dietary patterns and increasing sustainability awareness.

Germany maintains the largest share at 30.2% in 2026, driven by established plant-based market infrastructure and strong environmental values, while growing at 8.8% CAGR. Netherlands and Italy demonstrate 9.4% CAGR, reflecting innovation leadership and culinary integration respectively.

Demand Analysis by Key Countries

Country	CAGR % (2026-2036)
France	9.5%
Spain	9.5%
Netherlands	9.4%
Italy	9.4%
Rest of Europe	9.0%
Germany	8.8%

EU plant-based fish sales demonstrate differentiated growth trajectories across major European economies, with Mediterranean and progressive markets outpacing traditional strongholds through 2036, driven by varying culinary traditions, environmental priorities, and plant-based market maturity. France shows exceptional growth from USD 28.4 million in 2026 to USD 70.5 million by 2036 at 9.5% CAGR. Spain expands robustly from USD 15.5 million to USD 38.3 million at 9.5% CAGR. Netherlands records strong growth from USD 18.4 million to USD 45.2 million at 9.4% CAGR. Italy demonstrates USD 13.3 million to USD 32.7 million at 9.4% CAGR. Rest of Europe shows USD 24.3 million to USD 57.6 million at 9.0% CAGR. Germany maintains steady expansion from USD 43.2 million to USD 100.6 million at 8.8% CAGR.

Germany Maintains Leadership with Established Infrastructure

The plant-based fish sector in Germany is projected to exhibit steady growth with a CAGR of 8.8% through 2036, driven by exceptionally well-developed plant-based market infrastructure, strong environmental consciousness, and established distribution networks throughout the country. Germany's sophisticated alternative protein ecosystem and internationally recognized sustainability commitments create substantial demand for innovative plant-based seafood across retail and foodservice channels.

Major retailers including Edeka, Rewe, Lidl, and Kaufland systematically expand plant-based fish offerings, often featuring dedicated sections with extensive product ranges from multiple brands. German demand benefits from high environmental awareness driving sustainable consumption, substantial vegetarian and vegan populations seeking seafood alternatives, and technological innovation capabilities supporting domestic production. The strong foodservice sector, including quick-service restaurants and institutional catering, increasingly incorporates plant-based fish options responding to consumer demand.

The relatively moderate growth rate reflects Germany's mature plant-based market status where established consumption patterns leave room for steady expansion through innovation and premiumization rather than explosive volume growth throughout the forecast period.

Growth drivers:

• Environmental consciousness driving adoption
• Established plant-based infrastructure
• Innovation ecosystem supporting development

France Shows Strong Growth with Culinary Excellence

Revenue from plant-based fish in France is expanding at a CAGR of 9.5%, supported by sophisticated culinary culture embracing gastronomic innovation, strong environmental movement, and increasing flexitarian adoption among French consumers. France's renowned seafood traditions and culinary expertise create unique opportunities for premium plant-based alternatives meeting haute cuisine standards.

Major retailers including Carrefour, Leclerc, and Monoprix actively promote plant-based seafood through premium positioning, chef collaborations, and educational initiatives explaining environmental benefits. French sales particularly benefit from coastal populations seeking sustainable alternatives, restaurant sector innovation in plant-based seafood dishes, and government support for sustainable food systems. The country's emphasis on taste and quality creates opportunities for sophisticated products delivering authentic culinary experiences.

Success factors:

• Culinary sophistication demanding quality
• Environmental activism supporting sustainability
• Coastal culture embracing ocean preservation

Italy Demonstrates Aligned Growth with Mediterranean Focus

The demand for plant-based fish in Italy is growing at a CAGR of 9.4%, fundamentally driven by Mediterranean dietary traditions emphasizing seafood consumption, expanding awareness of overfishing impacts, and growing integration of plant-based options into Italian cuisine. Italy's evolving food landscape increasingly recognizes plant-based seafood's role in sustainable Mediterranean diets, creating favorable conditions for premium alternatives among quality-conscious Italian consumers.

Major Italian retailers including Coop, Esselunga, and Conad actively promote plant-based fish through recipe integration, cooking demonstrations, and seasonal promotions aligned with Catholic dietary traditions. Italian sales particularly benefit from coastal tourism demanding sustainable options, increasing health consciousness among younger demographics, and culinary innovation preserving traditional flavors through plant-based formats.

Development factors:

• Mediterranean diet integration opportunities
• Coastal consciousness regarding marine protection
• Culinary tradition embracing innovation

Spain Shows Robust Expansion with Sustainability Focus

Demand for plant-based fish in Spain is projected to grow at an impressive CAGR of 9.5%, substantially supported by strong seafood consumption traditions creating large addressable markets, increasing environmental awareness particularly among younger consumers, and growing tourism sector demanding sustainable alternatives. Spanish market transformation and improving economic conditions position plant-based seafood as accessible alternatives aligned with contemporary sustainability priorities.

Major Spanish retailers including Mercadona, Carrefour, and El Corte Inglés systematically introduce plant-based fish ranges with competitive pricing and Spanish-specific products addressing local preferences. Spain's extensive coastline and maritime heritage create unique positioning for ocean-positive alternatives. The country's vibrant tapas culture and restaurant innovation enable creative applications, supporting category development through culinary experimentation.

Growth enablers:

• Seafood culture creating market opportunity
• Environmental movement gaining momentum
• Tourism driving sustainable options

Netherlands Leads Innovation Through Technology Leadership

Demand for plant-based fish in the Netherlands is expanding at a leading CAGR of 9.4%, fundamentally driven by exceptional food technology capabilities, progressive sustainability policies, and sophisticated understanding of alternative proteins among Dutch consumers. Dutch society demonstrates particular strength in innovation ecosystems, sustainable food initiatives, and early adoption of food technologies positioning the Netherlands as European leader in plant-based seafood development.

Netherlands sales significantly benefit from government support for sustainable protein transition including research funding and regulatory frameworks, high concentration of food technology companies driving innovation, and consumer openness to novel foods supporting market experimentation. Dutch ports' historical importance creates cultural connections to seafood while environmental consciousness drives alternative adoption. The country's export-oriented food industry positions Dutch companies as European suppliers for plant-based seafood innovations.

Innovation drivers:

• Technology ecosystem enabling development
• Government support accelerating transition
• Export capabilities scaling innovations

Competitive Landscape

EU plant-based fish sales are defined by competition among specialized alternative seafood companies, established plant-based manufacturers, and emerging food technology startups. Companies are investing in sensory optimization, nutritional enhancement, sustainability certification, and culinary partnerships to deliver authentic, nutritious, and sustainable seafood alternatives. Strategic partnerships with retailers, foodservice operators, and environmental organizations emphasizing market education and category development are central to strengthening competitive position.

Major participants include Good Catch with an estimated 16.0% share, leveraging its culinary positioning, chef partnerships, and strong retail presence through premium plant-based seafood. Good Catch benefits from proprietary protein blend technology, comprehensive product portfolio, and established relationships with natural food retailers supporting brand recognition among conscious consumers.

Gardein (Conagra) holds approximately 12.0% share through its mainstream market access, competitive pricing strategies, and trusted brand heritage. The company's success in frozen food channels and ability to provide accessible plant-based seafood creates strong positioning among value-conscious consumers seeking convenient alternatives.

Sophie's Kitchen accounts for roughly 8.0% share through its position as clean-label pioneer with strong specialty retail presence, providing allergen-free seafood alternatives through konjac-based formulations. The company benefits from unique texture technologies, family-friendly positioning, and marketing excellence targeting health-conscious families.

Other key players including The Plant-Based Seafood Co. (6.0%), New Wave Foods (5.0%), and Ocean Hugger Foods (4.0%) collectively with additional companies hold 49.0% share, reflecting the fragmented nature of European plant-based fish market where numerous specialized brands, regional manufacturers, and emerging technology companies serve specific consumer segments and culinary applications.

Key Players

• Good Catch
• Gardein (Conagra)
• Sophie's Kitchen
• The Plant-Based Seafood Co.
• New Wave Foods
• Ocean Hugger Foods
• Quorn (Monde Nissin)
• Novish
• Vegan Zeastar
• Wild Type
• BlueNalu
• Finless Foods
• Others

Scope of the Report

Metric	Value
Quantitative Units	USD 156.3 million to USD 376.8 million, CAGR 9.2%
Market Definition	Plant-based fish encompasses food products formulated from plant proteins (soy, wheat, pea) and other plant-derived ingredients to replicate the taste, texture, and cooking properties of conventional fish and seafood products. The category includes plant-based fillets, burger patties, crumbles and grounds, and other formats designed as direct substitutes for white fish, tuna, salmon, and processed seafood items.
Segmentation	Product Type (Fillets, Burger Patty, Crumbles & Grounds, Others), Source (Soy-based Protein, Wheat-based Protein, Others), Distribution Channel (Supermarkets, Specialty Food Stores, Convenience Stores, Others)
Regions Covered	Europe (EU member states)
Countries Covered	France, Spain, Netherlands, Italy, Rest of Europe, Germany
Key Companies Profiled	Good Catch, Gardein (Conagra), Sophie's Kitchen, The Plant-Based Seafood Co., New Wave Foods, Ocean Hugger Foods, Quorn (Monde Nissin), Novish, Vegan Zeastar, Wild Type
Forecast Period	2026 to 2036
Approach	Hybrid bottom-up methodology using EU production, trade, and consumption data.

Key Segments

Product Type

• Fillets
• Burger Patty
• Crumbles & Grounds
• Others

Source (Protein Base)

• Soy-based Protein
• Wheat-based Protein
• Others

Distribution Channel

• Supermarkets
• Specialty Food Stores
• Convenience Stores
• Others

Countries

• Germany
• France
• Italy
• Spain
• Netherlands
• Rest of Europe

Bibliography

• European Commission. (2024). Common Fisheries Policy: Annual Report on EU Fish Stock Status. European Commission DG Maritime Affairs.
• European Commission. (2024). Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011: Fish Allergen Labelling Requirements. EUR-Lex.
• Good Food Institute Europe. (2024). Plant-Based Seafood in Europe: Market Analysis and Consumer Research. GFI Europe.
• Marine Stewardship Council (MSC). (2024). Annual Report 2024: Certified Sustainable Fisheries Statistics. MSC.
• European Commission. (2024). EU Green Deal: Ocean and Fisheries Sustainability Action Plan. European Commission.

This bibliography is provided for reader reference. The full FMI report contains the complete reference list with primary research documentation.

This Report Addresses

• Market sizing and forecast metrics for plant-based fish across EU end-use sectors through 2036.
• Segmentation analysis mapping adoption velocity and regulatory factors.
• Country-level intelligence comparing growth across major EU markets.
• Regulatory compliance assessment analyzing EU classification and labelling standards.
• Competitive posture evaluation tracking supplier dynamics and margins.
• Strategic procurement guidance defining supply agreements and inventory parameters.
• Supply chain vulnerability analysis identifying origin and seasonal risks.
• Custom data delivery: dashboards, Excel datasets, and PDF reports.