TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best Seafood Types in the World
In Norway, Atlantic salmon takes up around 40% of all seafood that's exported from the country. Most of it isn't caught in the wild – the salmon is farmed in giant tanks that are moored off the coast. In order of decreasing amount, there is fresh whole salmon, frozen whole salmon, frozen salmon fillets, and fresh salmon fillets that are exported across the world.
The great versatility, flavor, and high nutrient content are the reasons why Norwegian salmon rose to fame and it's popularity increased worldwide since the 1970s, when the world's first successfully farmed salmon was placed into a pen in a fjord outside Trodheim.
Akami is a part of bluefin tuna that refers to lean red meat. This is the main part of the fish, so it's more readily available than the other parts, called chūtoro and otoro. It has the least fat out of the whole tuna, which makes it the most affordable.
Akami is typically used atop rice in sashimi or nigiri. In a sushi restaurant, if you order maguro (a broad term for tuna), you will get akami from whichever species of tuna they have on hand. This part of tuna also has the most umami tuna flavor of all other, fattier cuts.
American lobster (lat. Homarus americanu), also known as Maine lobster, Atlantic lobster, Canadian lobster, true lobster, northern lobster, and Canadian Reds, is considered the heaviest crustacean in the world, and can be found along the Atlantic coast of North America.
It usually reaches 8-24 inches (20-60 cm) and there are several color variants, but it's typically blueish green or brown-red. It displays the pearliest meat that is succulent, juicy, and tender when gently boiled, steamed, or grilled with some hot, melted butter and a drizzle of lemon juice.
THE BEST American lobster Lobsters
Norwegian smoked salmon or røkelaks is one of the most popular smoked salmon varieties. It is usually made with farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar), and it stands out for its quality, bright pink color, and tender and flaky flesh.
The flavor and the aroma are mild and have a distinctive, subtly smoky note. Before smoking, the salmon can undergo wet or dry curing, while the smoking process can be hot or cold, the latter being prevalent these days. Beech or other wood chips can be added during smoking.
The final taste profile will depend on the type of salmon and the production techniques.
Five different species of wild salmon can be caught in Alaska: king, sockeye, coho, chum, and pink salmon. Each species has some defining characteristics: king salmon is often used for sushi, sockeye has a strong flavor, coho is known as a great-tasting salmon, chum salmon is valued for its eggs, and pink salmon is used for canning.
Salmon is a very versatile fish that can be prepared in many ways: it can be baked, grilled, or smoked, and it’s good in stews, fish cakes, and salads. This highly nutritious fish is rich in vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids, and consuming it reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Otoro is a part of bluefin tuna that is the most desirable. It comes from the inside of the belly and it's the fattiest part of the fish. The texture is often described as intensely rich, marbled, and having melt-in-the-mouth properties. Due to these facts, it's traditionally the most expensive part of bluefin tuna.
It's often used in sashimi and nigiri, giving the dish a sweeter flavor. Otoro is the best during winter, once the tuna acquires additional body fat. It should always be consumed fresh as it doesn't last too much when frozen. This part of tuna is rarely found outside of Japan.
Pacific smoked salmon is a broad category of salmon that's usually found in the Pacific Ocean, most commonly Alaska and Canada. Some of the most popular Pacific smoked salmon varieties include: Chum (or dog salmon), the least common variety; Canadian King Salmon, with ivory white to deep red flesh; Sockeye or red salmon, with a bright and deep red-orange flesh, Pink or humpback, the smallest and most common type, and Coho or silver salmon, with red flesh.
Mejillón de Galicia are the fresh mussels (lat. Mytilus galloprovincialis), cultivated using rafts in the area of the Galician rías in the provinces of A Coruña and Pontevedra. These mussels have bright orange flesh and are very flavorful.
They are grown in the traditional way using rafts on which the mussels grow on the ropes that are suspended up to 12 meters deep below the surface. Once harvested, mejillón de Galicia are thoroughly inspected according to the strict set of rules and guidelines.
Centolla fueguina is an exceptionally flavored crustacean of the crab family Lithodes santolla, also known as Southern king crab or Tierra del Fuego crab, native across the southern coasts of Argentina and Chile. The best-known fishing grounds with the highest quality of crab are found in the Beagle Channel in the south of Argentina.
The crab’s sweet, delicately flavored meat found in the long legs and the red, spiky shell is widely regarded as one of the best crab meat in the world. A gastronomic delight, centolla fueguina is undisputedly one of the most famous regional delicacies of the Tierra del Fuego province, served in restaurants all over the region.
Unagi is the Japanese word referring to the freshwater eel, commonly used in Japanese cuisine. It is mainly consumed in the form of fillets, which are always grilled due to the presence of harmful toxins. The fillets are then spread with a sweet and salty sauce made with soy sauce, mirin, and sugar.
Although unagi is consumed in the entire country, there are slight regional differences in the way the eel is cut and prepared. In Kanto region, the cuts are made from the back, and the fillets are grilled and steamed, while in Kansai the eel is cut from the stomach and the fillets are merely grilled.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best Seafood Producers in the World
Real Conservera Española is celebrated for its high-quality, artisanal canned seafood, including delicacies like razor clams, mussels, and sardines. Founded in 1920, this family-run company continues to use traditional hand-packing methods, ensuring superior flavor and presentation.
Each product is harvested from the pristine waters of Galicia, renowned for its rich marine life, and is preserved in top-grade olive oil or brine. The brand's commitment to quality has earned it numerous accolades, positioning it as a premium choice in gourmet seafood.
AWARDS
World's 101 Best Canned Products from the Sea - Top 10 Sardines
2024
World's 101 Best Canned Products from the Sea - Top 10 Tuna
2024
World's 101 Best Canned Products from the Sea - Top 10 Mackerels
2024
BEST Real Conservera Española Seafood
Conservas El Capricho, based in Cantabria, Spain, is renowned for producing some of the world's finest canned anchovies, noted for their premium quality and artisanal processing. This family-owned company is highly selective about its raw ingredients, using only fresh anchovies from the Cantabrian Sea, which are processed by hand to ensure optimal taste and texture.
They emphasize traditional methods, aging the anchovies in sea salt for over a year, which enhances flavor depth. El Capricho’s products are praised for their delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture and balanced saltiness, making them a gourmet favorite.
AWARDS
World's 101 Best Canned Products from the Sea - Top 10 Anchovies
2024
World's 101 Best Canned Products from the Sea - Top 10 Tuna
2024
World's 101 Best Canned Products from the Sea - Top 10 Special Products
2024
BEST Conservas El Capricho Seafood
Nuri - Pinhais is a renowned Portuguese company specializing in the production of premium canned seafood, most famously known for its Nuri brand. With a long-standing tradition, the company has been offering high-quality products for decades, particularly sardines sourced from the pristine waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
Founded with the mission to preserve the authenticity and tradition of Portuguese fishing, Conservas Nuri - Pinhais uses techniques passed down through generations. Their products are carefully prepared by hand, with fish selected and processed to retain their freshness and natural flavor.
AWARDS
World's 101 Best Canned Products from the Sea - Top 10 Sardines
2024
World's 101 Best Canned Products from the Sea - Top 10 Mackerels
2024
BEST Nuri - Pinhais Seafood
Mowi Canada West is a leading producer of Atlantic salmon in Western Canada, known for its strong commitment to sustainability and quality. Based in Campbell River, British Columbia, the company operates salmon farms along the coasts of British Columbia and Vancouver Island, producing approximately 23,000 tons of fresh and healthy Atlantic salmon annually.
The company is dedicated to environmental stewardship, as demonstrated by the fact that all of its farms are certified by the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) and Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP). These certifications reflect Mowi’s commitment to transparency, innovation, and reducing its environmental footprint.
BEST Mowi Canada West Seafood
Established in Galicia, Ramón Peña specializes in gourmet offerings such as mussels, sardines, and tuna, sourced sustainably from the Atlantic Ocean. The brand’s products are hand-prepared and packed, following artisanal methods that enhance natural flavors and texture.
Their dedication to quality has made them a top choice for chefs and seafood enthusiasts worldwide. With a focus on flavor and heritage, Ramón Peña has earned a reputation as a luxury seafood brand representing Spanish gastronomic excellence.
AWARDS
World's 101 Best Canned Products from the Sea - Top 10 Sardines
2024
World's 101 Best Canned Products from the Sea - Top 10 Anchovies
2024
World's 101 Best Canned Products from the Sea - Top 10 Mackerels
2024
BEST Conservas Ramón Peña Seafood
Prince Edward Aqua Farms is renowned for producing premium shellfish, particularly their Island Gold Blue Mussels, which have earned international acclaim for their delicate flavor and nutritional value. Cultivated in the pristine natural bays of Prince Edward Island, these mussels are rope-grown, resulting in top-quality, hearty meats harvested year-round. The company is committed to environmental stewardship, implementing sustainable practices across all operations.
This dedication is exemplified by their Ocean Wise certification, assuring consumers that their products are an environmentally responsible seafood choice. Beyond mussels, Prince Edward Aqua Farms offers a diverse selection of shellfish, including oysters, clams, and quahogs, all cultivated and harvested with the same meticulous attention to quality.
BEST Prince Edward Aqua Farms Seafood
Lobsters 'R' Us is a respected seafood producer specializing in the supply of premium live lobsters and snow crab. Their commitment to excellence at every stage of the process—from harvest to delivery—ensures freshness, safety, and authentic ocean flavor.
Through close collaboration with local fishers and the use of state-of-the-art storage facilities, the company maintains ideal conditions to preserve the natural quality of its products. Energy-efficient technology and an advanced traceability system guarantee consistent quality and full transparency in every shipment.
BEST Lobsters 'R' Us Seafood
Clearwater Seafoods is a leading Canadian company specializing in premium, wild-caught seafood. Founded in 1976 as a small local lobster shop in Nova Scotia, Clearwater has grown over the decades into one of the largest vertically integrated seafood companies in North America, renowned for its superior quality, food safety, and reliable global distribution.
Its product range includes a wide variety of shellfish, including scallops, lobsters, clams, snow crab, Norwegian lobster (langoustine), rock crab, whelk, and turbot. All products are certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), ensuring their sustainability and exceptional quality.
BEST Clearwater Seafoods Seafood
Ramirez, located in Matosinhos, Portugal, is one of the oldest fish canneries globally, with roots dating back to 1853. Known for high-quality canned seafood, it specializes in traditional Portuguese products, including sardines, mackerel, and tuna.
The company values sustainability and implements environmentally responsible fishing practices. Ramirez has consistently modernized its operations, blending heritage techniques with advanced technology to ensure quality and safety in production.
AWARDS
World's 101 Best Canned Products from the Sea - Top 10 Mackerels
2024
BEST Ramirez Seafood
Jose Gourmet is a premium Portuguese brand known for its high-quality canned seafood products, including sardines, mackerel, and octopus. It emphasizes traditional Portuguese recipes and natural ingredients, ensuring authenticity and flavor. The brand’s packaging is distinctive, with artistic designs that reflect its commitment to culinary and cultural expression.
José Gourmet sources its fish sustainably, aiming to support the environment and local communities. Their products are popular among gourmets worldwide for their exceptional taste and quality, often highlighted in international rankings like the World's 101 Best Canned Fish.
AWARDS
World's 101 Best Canned Products from the Sea - Top 10 Mackerels
2024
BEST Jose Gourmet Seafood
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best Seafood in the World
Mowi Premium Atlantic Salmon, produced by Mowi Canada West in Campbell River, British Columbia, is one of the finest examples of premium farmed salmon in the world. Raised in the cold, clear waters of Canada’s Pacific coast, this salmon is celebrated for its rich, buttery flavor, vibrant natural color, and beautifully marbled texture.
A favorite among top chefs and gourmet retailers worldwide, it is prized for its versatility — perfect for sushi, sashimi, grilling, or roasting. Mowi’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council) certification, ensuring responsible farming practices and full traceability from egg to plate.
Organic Choice Mussels are a delicacy raised in harmony with nature. These mussels are known for their exceptional quality—each shell holds plump, tender meat with a mild, slightly sweet flavor. From seed to harvest, they are cultivated with great care, earning them an international reputation.
Every bite is rich in natural nutrients and full of flavor, just the way organic food lovers expect. Organic Choice Mussels proudly carry organic certification from Global Trust (now part of SAI Global), a global leader in aquaculture standards. This certification confirms that our mussels are farmed and processed in accordance with the strictest rules of organic production.
Princess Delights are premium oysters cultivated by Prince Edward Aqua Farms in the cold, pristine waters of Prince Edward Island—a natural environment that provides the perfect conditions for their growth and development. These oysters are celebrated for their rich, rounded flavor profile, featuring deep, buttery, and earthy notes, balanced perfectly with a clean brininess and a crisp texture that finishes refreshingly on the palate.
Their taste is refined and layered, each oyster reveals subtle nuances that evolve with every bite, from light mineral tones to the full-bodied essence of the sea, making them a delightful experience for the senses. Whether served raw on the half shell with a splash of lemon, gently baked, or featured in gourmet recipes, Princess Delights maintain their depth of flavor and fresh texture in every preparation.
The Americian lobster is one of the world’s most prized seafood delicacies and the lobsters offered by Lobsters 'R' Us stand out for their exceptional freshness, flavor, and quality. The cold environment slows their growth, allowing for a natural buildup of protein and nutrients.
This results in meat that is denser, juicier, and more flavorful—delivering a deep, well-rounded taste that needs little enhancement. It’s a pure expression of the ocean’s finest. Whether boiled, grilled, or used in gourmet dishes, Atlantic lobster from Lobsters 'R' Us leaves a lasting impression.
Spot Prawns Whole are one of the West Coast’s most prized seafood delicacies, celebrated for their natural sweetness, tender texture, and delicate flavor. Harvested from the cold, pristine waters of the Pacific Ocean, these whole prawns complete with head and shell are flash-frozen at sea to lock in peak freshness and preserve their full culinary potential.
Caught using sustainable and responsible fishing practices, these spot prawns are a true reflection of the care and quality that Finest At Sea is known for. With their firm, juicy meat and rich taste, they offer a premium seafood experience that’s both delicious and eco-conscious.
Clearwater’s Snow Crab are a premium seafood delicacy, sustainably harvested from the cold, pristine waters of the North Atlantic, known for their naturally sweet flavor, juicy texture, and delicate snow-white meat. These crabs are fully cooked and frozen at peak freshness, making them ideal for a variety of culinary uses—from appetizers and seafood platters to main courses.
Each cluster features one side of crab legs and a claw, carefully processed and packed to preserve maximum freshness and quality. Caught and handled according to the highest food safety standards and certified by the MSC, these crab clusters are not only a gourmet delight but also a responsible choice for consumers who value sustainability and natural purity.
Grieg Seafood's Atlantic salmon is a premium product that combines tradition, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability. Raised in the clean, cold waters of British Columbia and Norway, this salmon is distinguished by exceptional quality, rich flavor, and tender texture, making it a favored choice among top restaurants, renowned chefs, and discerning consumers worldwide.
Grieg Seafood adheres to the highest production standards, placing special emphasis on fish health and environmental preservation. The salmon are fed high-quality, natural ingredients enriched with vitamins and minerals, without the use of antibiotics or harmful chemicals.
These sardines are hand-packed in high-quality olive oil, preserving their natural flavor and enhancing their delicate texture. Real Conservera Española uses artisanal methods, ensuring the sardines retain their freshness and nutritional value. The brand’s commitment to quality and traditional preparation has earned its products recognition in gourmet circles and competitions worldwide.
These sardines are celebrated for their simplicity, nutritional benefits, and rich taste, ideal for fine dining or as a luxurious tapas option.
AWARDS
World's 101 Best Canned Products from the Sea - Top 10 Sardines
2024
Nuri Sardinhas em Azeite Picante are a bold and flavorful variation of the classic NURI sardines. These premium sardines are carefully packed in extra virgin olive oil, enriched with an extra spicy blend to add a kick to the already rich and tender fish.
Sourced from the pristine waters of the Atlantic, these sardines are hand-selected and meticulously prepared to retain their freshness and delicate texture. This product is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals, offering a perfect balance of spicy and savory flavors.
AWARDS
World's 101 Best Canned Products from the Sea - Top 10 Sardines
2024
TRUCHA AHUMADA, or smoked trout, is one of the artisanal products offered by Rooftop Smokehouse. Rooftop Smokehouse is known for creating high-quality smoked foods using traditional methods and locally sourced ingredients. The company emphasizes craftsmanship and often smokes their products in small batches to ensure the finest quality and flavor.
The TRUCHA AHUMADA is typically prepared with careful attention to the smoking process, which imparts a rich, smoky flavor while preserving the delicate texture of the trout. This makes it a gourmet addition to a variety of dishes, ranging from appetizers to main courses.
AWARDS
Great Taste Awards - 3 stars
2023
TasteAtlas food rankings are based on the ratings of the TasteAtlas audience, with a series of mechanisms that recognize real users and that ignore bot, nationalist or local patriotic ratings, and give additional value to the ratings of users that the system recognizes as knowledgeable. For the “Top 100 Seafood in the World” list until April 23, 2025, 3,942 ratings were recorded, of which 2,775 were recognized by the system as legitimate. TasteAtlas Rankings should not be seen as the final global conclusion about food. Their purpose is to promote excellent local foods, instill pride in traditional dishes, and arouse curiosity about dishes you haven’t tried.