(Monthly) National Seafood Month

Celebrated on 10/01/2026

Quick Fact

National Seafood Month was established in the 1980s to promote the consumption of seafood and support the U.S. fishing industry. Did you know that Americans consume about 16 pounds of seafood per person each year, with shrimp being the most popular choice?

Origins and Establishment of (Monthly) National Seafood Month

National Seafood Month was first observed in 1985 when the U.S. Congress designated October as a time to recognize the importance of seafood to the American diet and economy. The initiative was championed by the National Fisheries Institute (NFI) and other seafood industry groups to encourage Americans to eat more seafood and to highlight the nutritional benefits of fish and shellfish. The designation aimed to boost the domestic fishing industry, which faced challenges from foreign competition and declining consumption.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Over the decades, National Seafood Month has evolved from a simple promotional campaign into a broader celebration of seafood sustainability and culinary diversity. Today, it is marked by seafood festivals, restaurant specials, and educational campaigns about sustainable fishing practices. Organizations like the Seafood Nutrition Partnership use the month to promote the health benefits of seafood, while the NFI focuses on industry advocacy. Social media campaigns and cooking demonstrations have become common, making the observance more interactive and accessible to the public.

Facts & General Observations

• The United States is the world's second-largest seafood consumer, with an annual per capita consumption of about 16 pounds.
• Shrimp is the most popular seafood in the U.S., with Americans eating roughly 4.5 pounds per person each year.
• The U.S. seafood industry supports over 1.2 million jobs and contributes approximately $144 billion to the national economy annually.

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