The global crab meat market size was calculated to be USD 920.52 million in 2024 and is anticipated to be worth USD 1.39 billion by 2033 from USD 963.78 million In 2025, growing at a CAGR of 4.70% during the forecast period.
Crab meat is popular for its soft texture and sweet flavor, making it a key ingredient in many cuisines worldwide. Crab meat is also packed with nutrition. A 100-gram serving of cooked crab meat contains 97 calories, 19.35 grams of protein, and 1.54 grams of fat. It is rich in essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, selenium, and zinc, making it a healthy food choice. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), global crab production exceeded 223 million metric tons in 2022. China alone contributes more than 60% of the total crab output. In the United States, Chesapeake Bay and the Gulf of Mexico are well-known for their blue crab harvests, which provide jobs to many fishermen and seafood processors.
Sustainability is a major focus in the market due to concerns about overfishing and environmental damage. The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) states that nearly one-third of crab stocks are overfished or at risk. To protect crab populations, stricter fishing rules and conservation programs are being introduced globally. The demand for ready-to-eat crab meat products is growing as consumers look for convenient meal options. To maintain food safety, agencies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) enforce strict quality checks on crab meat sold in markets.
More people are becoming aware of the health benefits of seafood, which is driving the demand for crab meat. Crab meat is an excellent source of protein, essential amino acids, and omega-3 fatty acids, all of which support heart and brain health. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), crab meat contains vital minerals like phosphorus, zinc, copper, calcium, and iron. It is also very low in fat, especially saturated fat, making it a top choice for health-conscious consumers. The shift toward low-fat, high-protein diets is increasing crab meat’s popularity among seafood lovers.
Sustainable fishing is playing a key role in shaping the crab meat market. Government agencies such as the United Kingdom’s Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) have introduced plans to ensure the long-term survival of crab populations. Defra’s Crab and Lobster Fisheries Management Plan focuses on protecting marine life while allowing responsible fishing. Such initiatives not only preserve crab populations but also build consumer trust in sustainable seafood, boosting market growth.
One of the biggest concerns in the crab meat market is the presence of environmental contaminants. A study by the United Kingdom’s Food Standards Agency tested 397 samples of brown crab meat and found cadmium levels ranging from 0.11 to 26 mg/kg. Most of this cadmium is found in the hepatopancreas, which is part of the brown meat. High cadmium levels can pose health risks to consumers, leading to strict monitoring and regulations to ensure food safety.
Regulations to protect marine life can sometimes affect the availability of crab meat in the market. For example, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife has enforced early closures of the Dungeness crab fishery to reduce the risk of whale entanglements. In March 2024, the department announced that commercial crab fishing in Zones 3 to 6 would close on April 15, 2024, to protect migrating whales. While these measures are necessary for conservation, they disrupt the crab supply chain, leading to price fluctuations and limited availability for consumers.
Aquaculture, or seafood farming, is becoming a major opportunity in the crab meat market. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reports that global aquaculture production reached a record 130.9 million tonnes in 2022, an increase of 8.1 million tonnes from 2020. This rise shows the potential for farming crabs in controlled environments. Land-based crab farming can help stabilize supply, reduce overfishing, and meet growing consumer demand.
Consumers are showing more interest in sustainably sourced seafood. The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) reports that over 20,000 seafood products worldwide now carry the MSC label, indicating sustainable sourcing. This trend presents an opportunity for crab meat companies to highlight their commitment to responsible fishing. By securing sustainability certifications and promoting eco-friendly practices, brands can attract environmentally conscious consumers and even charge higher prices for certified products, boosting profitability.
Climate change is a serious threat to crab populations. Between 2018 and 2021, the snow crab population in the Bering Sea dropped by more than 90%, which translates to a loss of around 10 billion crabs. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), this decline is linked to rising sea temperatures and melting sea ice, which negatively affect crab habitats. Higher temperatures increase crabs’ metabolic rates, leading to starvation and lower survival rates. These environmental shifts highlight the need for climate-adaptive strategies to protect crab populations.
Supply chain issues are another major challenge in the crab meat market. Problems such as container shortages, shipping delays, and rising transportation costs have disrupted the seafood supply, especially in Southeast Asia. These disruptions have caused crab meat prices to increase sharply. For example, the cost of colossal blue swimming crab meat has surged by over 86% compared to previous years. Such supply chain difficulties create instability in the market and highlight the need for improved logistics and infrastructure to ensure a steady crab meat supply.
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REPORT METRIC |
DETAILS |
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Market Size Available |
2024 to 2033 |
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Base Year |
2024 |
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Forecast Period |
2025 to 2033 |
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CAGR |
4.70% |
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Segments Covered |
By Type, Form, Sales Channel, and Region |
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Various Analyses Covered |
Global, Regional & Country Level Analysis; Segment-Level Analysis; DROC, PESTLE Analysis; Porter’s Five Forces Analysis; Competitive Landscape; Analyst Overview of Investment Opportunities |
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Regions Covered |
North America, Europe, APAC, Latin America, Middle East & Africa |
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Market Leaders Profiled |
Bumble Bee Foods, LLC, Supreme Crab and Seafood, Inc., Maine Lobster Now LLC, Millennium Ocean Star Corporation, Phil-Union Frozen Foods, Inc., Phillips Foods, Inc., Blue Star Foods Corp., Handy International Incorporated, Red Chamber Co., Ltd., and Trans-Ocean Products Inc. |
The blue crab segment led the market by achieving a share of 31.3% of the global market in 2024. The dominance of blue crab segment is attributed to its sweet and delicate flavor, making it a preferred choice among consumers. Additionally, Blue Crab is a rich source of high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to support cardiovascular health. Its widespread availability and popularity in regions such as North America and Europe further contribute to its leading position in the market.
The chinese mitten crab segment is on a rapid growth and is predicted to showcase a CAGR of 6.10% during the forecast period. Factors such as the increasing consumer awareness of the nutritional benefits of crabs, including their high protein content and essential minerals is majorly propelling the growth of the Chinese mitten crab segment in the global market. The expansion of retail establishments offering crustaceans and the growing significance of land-based aquaculture also contribute to this segment's accelerated growth. The Chinese Mitten Crab is particularly valued in Asian cuisines, where it is considered a delicacy, further bolstering its market expansion.
The frozen segment captured the largest share of 46.7% of the global market in 2024. The domination of frozen segment in the global market is attributed to its extended shelf life and the preservation of nutritional value. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), freezing seafood effectively maintains its quality and safety, making it suitable for long-term storage and international trade. The convenience of frozen crab meat allows for year-round availability, catering to consumer demand regardless of seasonal variations. Its practicality for both households and the foodservice industry further solidifies its leading position in the market.
The canned crab meat segment is predicted to witness a CAGR of 4.7% during the forecast period due to factors such as the rising demand for convenient and ready-to-eat seafood options. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) stated that canned seafood provides a practical alternative for consumers seeking quick meal solutions without compromising nutritional benefits. Canned crab meat's long shelf life and ease of use in various culinary applications, such as salads and soups, make it an appealing choice for busy individuals and households, contributing to its rapid market expansion.
The supermarkets and hypermarkets segment dominated the market by holding the share of 58.5% in the global market in 2024. The domination of supermarkets and hypermarkets segment is majorly driven by their extensive reach that offer consumers a wide variety of crab meat products, including fresh, frozen, and canned options. The convenience of one-stop shopping and competitive pricing strategies attract a broad customer base. According to the Food Marketing Institute, supermarkets are the primary food retail channel in the United States, with over 38,000 stores nationwide, highlighting their significant role in food distribution. Their ability to maintain quality standards and provide diverse product selections makes them a preferred choice for consumers purchasing crab meat.
The online retail segment is anticipated to witness a CAGR of 6.3% over the forecast period in the global market owing to the increasing consumer preference for convenient shopping solutions and the expansion of e-commerce platforms. The U.S. Department of Commerce reported that e-commerce sales accounted for 14.3% of total retail sales in 2022, reflecting a significant rise from previous years. The ability to access a wide range of crab meat products, often with detailed sourcing and sustainability information, appeals to health-conscious and environmentally aware consumers. Additionally, advancements in cold chain logistics ensure the freshness and quality of perishable goods like crab meat during transit, further bolstering consumer confidence in online purchases.
Asia-Pacific led the crab meat market by accounting for the most significant share of global market in 2024. The dominance of Asia-Pacific in the global market is primarily due to the region's rich marine biodiversity and established aquaculture practices. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), China alone contributes over 50% of the world's crab production, with an output exceeding 2 million metric tons annually. The prevalence of crab in traditional cuisines, particularly in countries like China, Japan, and South Korea, drives substantial domestic consumption. Additionally, advancements in aquaculture have bolstered production efficiency, ensuring a steady supply to meet both local and international demand.
North America is another major market for crab meat and is estimated to exhibit a CAGR of 4.8% over the forecast period. Factors such as the increasing consumer awareness of the health benefits associated with seafood consumption, such as high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids is boosting the crab meat market in North America. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports that in 2020, the United States' commercial crab landings were valued at approximately $584 million which is highlighting the economic significance of crab fisheries. The rising popularity of premium seafood dishes in restaurants and a growing preference for home-cooked gourmet meals contribute to the expanding market in this region.
In Europe, the crab meat market is anticipated to grow steadily, driven by a rising demand for sustainable and high-quality seafood. The European Union's emphasis on sustainable fishing practices and traceability enhances consumer confidence, supporting market expansion. The popularity of premium and specialty crab meat varieties, along with a focus on sustainable sourcing practices, is rising, further contributing to the growth in demand for this sought-after seafood product in Europe.
Latin America shows potential for growth due to its extensive coastlines and increasing investments in seafood processing facilities. Countries like Chile and Brazil are focusing on enhancing their seafood export capabilities, which is expected to boost the crab meat market. The region's rich marine biodiversity and favorable climatic conditions support the cultivation and harvesting of various crab species, contributing to the market's expansion.
The Middle East & Africa region is likely to experience moderate growth, propelled by rising disposable incomes and a growing interest in diverse culinary experiences. However, limited local production and reliance on imports may pose challenges to market development in these areas.
Major Players of the global Crab Meat Market include Bumble Bee Foods, LLC, Supreme Crab and Seafood, Inc., Maine Lobster Now LLC, Millennium Ocean Star Corporation, Phil-Union Frozen Foods, Inc., Phillips Foods, Inc., Blue Star Foods Corp., Handy International Incorporated, Red Chamber Co., Ltd., and Trans-Ocean Products Inc.
The crab meat market is highly competitive, driven by increasing global demand, product innovation, and sustainability concerns. Major players such as Phillips Foods, Clearwater Seafoods, and Handy Seafood dominate the market by leveraging strong supply chains, sustainable sourcing, and brand reputation. These companies focus on product diversification, offering value-added crab products like pre-cooked crab legs, crab cakes, and ready-to-eat meals to meet consumer convenience demands.
Competition in the market is further intensified by regional players and new entrants, particularly in Asia-Pacific, where China, Vietnam, and Indonesia are major crab exporters. These countries benefit from abundant seafood resources and cost-effective production, making them strong competitors in the global market.
Sustainability and traceability have become key competitive factors, with leading companies obtaining certifications like MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. Additionally, technological advancements in packaging, cold storage, and supply chain logistics allow companies to expand their reach into new markets while ensuring product freshness.
Price competition is also prevalent due to fluctuations in crab availability, fishing regulations, and rising operational costs. Companies that successfully balance cost efficiency, quality, and sustainability are positioned to gain a competitive edge in this evolving market.
Companies are expanding their product lines to include value-added and convenient options, such as pre-cooked crab legs, crab cakes, and ready-to-eat meals. This approach caters to consumers seeking quick and easy meal solutions without compromising on quality. For instance, firms are developing pre-packaged crab meat for use in salads, sandwiches, and sushi, offering consumers a convenient way to enjoy crab without the hassle of preparation.
Recognizing the growing consumer demand for ethically sourced seafood, leading players are committing to sustainable fishing practices. This includes obtaining certifications from recognized bodies, implementing responsible harvesting methods, and investing in sustainable aquaculture. Such practices not only appeal to environmentally conscious consumers but also ensure the long-term viability of crab populations.
To enhance market reach and operational efficiency, companies are engaging in mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships. These strategic alliances enable firms to access new markets, leverage established distribution networks, and combine expertise to innovate and meet consumer demands effectively. For example, collaborations between seafood processors and retail chains have been established to streamline supply chains and increase market penetration.
Founded in 1914, Phillips Foods is a family-owned enterprise headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland. The company is renowned for its extensive range of crab products, including crab meat, crab cakes, and seafood appetizers. Phillips operates multiple processing facilities in the United States and Southeast Asia, ensuring a year-round supply of high-quality crab meat. Their global distribution network serves both retail and foodservice sectors, making them a significant contributor to the international crab meat market.
Established in 1976 and based in Bedford, Nova Scotia, Clearwater Seafoods is one of North America's largest shellfish producers. The company is vertically integrated, managing all stages from harvesting to distribution. Clearwater's product portfolio includes various seafood items, with a strong emphasis on crab, lobster, scallops, and clams. Their commitment to sustainable fishing practices and a robust global distribution network have solidified their position as a leader in the crab meat market.
Founded in 1894, Handy Seafood is one of the oldest seafood processing companies in the United States, headquartered in Salisbury, Maryland. The company specializes in crab products, particularly soft-shell crabs and crab cakes. Handy Seafood has a long-standing reputation for quality and innovation, contributing significantly to the crab meat market through both retail and foodservice channels.
This research report on the global crab meat market has been segmented and sub-segmented based on type, form, sales channel, and region.
By Type
By Form
By Sales Channel
By Region
Frequently Asked Questions
Increasing awareness of the health benefits of crab meat is a major driving factor for the crab meat market.
The market is estimated to register a CAGR of 4.7% during the forecast period.
The major players are Bumble Bee Foods, LLC, Supreme Crab and Seafood, Inc., Maine Lobster Now, Millennium Ocean Star Corporation, and Phil-Union Frozen Foods, Inc.
Increasing demand for imitation meat is one of the challenging factors in the crab meat market.
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