Fish Prices Rise as Lent Begins
As Lent kicks off, many Christians are choosing to forgo meat on Fridays, leading to an increase in church fish fries. However, with staple foods like cod and shrimp becoming more expensive, this year’s observance comes with some financial challenges.
Mark Frisch, the executive vice president and co-owner of Beaver Street Fisheries—a major seafood importer—noted that sales often see a 10% uptick during Lent, particularly on Fridays.
This year, the spike in demand coincides with global supply issues and rising operating costs, which are keeping prices high. He explained, “Seafood prices are influenced by global supply challenges and existing operational expenses. Certain fisheries are facing limited yields due to quota restrictions and fluctuations in fish populations, while aquaculture continues to deal with rising input costs.”
Despite a general slowing of inflation, seafood still grapples with high energy, labor, and transportation expenses. Because seafood is heavily traded worldwide, any shifts in global supply or trade policies can quickly affect prices.
On the topic of whitefish, supplies of Atlantic cod—a favorite for Friday fish fries—are tight, keeping prices relatively stable. Frisch commented, “When the supply of core species like cod becomes limited, it’s apparent throughout the market.”
Recent industry data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that frozen seafood prices in grocery stores increased by 8.4% in December compared to the previous year, with frozen shrimp up by 12% and fresh cod seeing similar hikes.
Interestingly, markets in cities from Columbus, Ohio, to Atlanta, Georgia, are welcoming increased foot traffic for Lent, even as wholesale prices fluctuate. This situation is particularly impactful for churches and community organizations that purchase fish for weekly events.
Darin Leonardson, a chef based in Texas, pointed out that restaurants, churches, and community events tend to experience faster price increases than grocery shoppers since they buy in bulk during this busy season. Leonardson specializes in high-volume food service and works closely with senior living facilities. He emphasized that when cod’s supply tightens, it tends to fly off the shelves, while shrimp prices are more volatile due to import dynamics.
Thankfully, he added that this isn’t a case of “panic-level inflation.” Seafood can still be an affordable option, particularly when compared to beef, although prices vary widely based on the type of fish and its cut. Smart shopping can certainly make a difference.
If cod pricing becomes excessive, alternatives like walleye or haddock could be more budget-friendly. Frisch pointed out that while there’s no significant shift away from core species, consumers are becoming savvier in their purchasing habits, opting to avoid premium shellfish but still looking for ways to enjoy seafood within reasonable price ranges.
In St. John’s, Michigan, a 10-pound box of cod has seen its price soar from around $50 to approximately $115 over the past year, as noted by local caterer Brian Morse.
Some local restaurants have preemptively increased the prices of their fish dinners by $1, yet many are still committed to serving around 250 dinners each Friday during the Lent season.
For many businesses, the challenge lies in balancing thin profit margins while upholding tradition. Leonardson remarked that the increase in demand is expected and may strain the market. “It’s crucial for operators to remain nimble while maintaining quality and tradition,” he added.
Experts anticipate that the demand for seafood will remain robust in the coming weeks, even if prices are slightly elevated this year.
