Supply of fish

Definition

Grams per person per day of fish available in a country's food supply. Includes production plus imports minus exports and changes in fish stocks. This indicator takes into consideration fish as well as processed foods derived from fish. Data is drawn from the FAO Food Balance Sheets. Note that FAO's methodology for Food Balance Sheets changed for 2014 estimates and after, which may limit comparability pre and post-2014.

Relevance

Availability of fish in the national food supply is a precursor to consumption of fish. Fish may provide an important source of nutrients in low- and middle-income countries, as well as high-income countries. Note that this indicator does not consider differences in access and affordability of fish among population subgroups. Fish are less harmful to the environment as compared to ruminant meat. Increased importance is now placed on sustainable aquaculture and avoidance of overfishing of captured fish.