Is plant based seafood just a trend?
Plant based seafood is a new category of meat alternatives that is gaining popularity in Europe. This type of food is made from plant based ingredients and is designed to look, taste and feel like real seafood. The demand for plant-based seafood is increasing as people are becoming more health-conscious and environmentally aware.
The trend of consuming plant-based seafood is on the rise in Europe, particularly among the younger generation. According to a survey conducted by the European Union in 2020, the majority of young Europeans (between the ages of 16 and 35) are interested in reducing their meat consumption and are willing to try plant-based alternatives.
One of the main reasons for this trend is the environmental impact of the fishing industry. Overfishing and pollution have led to a decline in the world’s fish populations and a threat to marine ecosystems. As a result, consumers are looking for sustainable and ethical alternatives to traditional seafood.
Another factor driving the trend is health concerns. Plant based seafood is often lower in calories, fat, and cholesterol than traditional seafood. It is also free from harmful contaminants like mercury and PCBs that can be found in some types of fish.
Plant based seafood is available in a variety of forms, including vegan fish fillets, crab cakes, and shrimp. Many companies are using innovative techniques to create the texture and flavor of real seafood. For example, some companies use algae to create a fishy flavor, while others use soy protein or wheat gluten to mimic the texture of real fish.
The popularity of plant based seafood is expected to continue to grow in Europe, driven by consumers’ desire for sustainable and healthy food choices. Companies are investing heavily in research and development to create new and innovative plant-based seafood products. As the market expands, the prices of these products are expected to decrease, making them more accessible to a wider audience.
We feel this a movement that is here to stay. Each year, we know that for every 4kg of Toonish we sell, we save 1 tuna and that reduces CO2 emissions by 3,36kg for every kilo of Toonish that is sold over tuna. We believe more people want to help contribute to a better and more sustainable ocean and that choosing plant based seafood is one way of doing your part.
Where can I find plant based seafood recipes?
If you are wanting to make a move toward eating plate based seafood but aren’t sure where to start, we have several recipes for Toonish available on our site from chefs like Jennie Waldén and Jävligt Gott. We have Swedish classics like smorgåkstorta and regular staples like baked potatoes.