The article provides an overview of the global and Brazilian fish consumption trends up to 2018, noting a steady annual growth of around 1.5% to 2.1%, with aquaculture playing a crucial role in meeting the demand. It highlights the sustainability and accessibility of farmed fish, contrasting them with wild-caught fish that may carry higher contaminants. The 2020 report by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) indicates that global fish production reached 179 million tons, with aquaculture contributing significantly to the human consumption of 156 million tons. China remains the leader in fish production, with Asia being the top continent. Brazil is discussed as experiencing growth in aquaculture, especially in tilapia and shrimp farming, which faced challenges but recovered and faced new hurdles with the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on the food service chain.
The article also touches on the benefits of aquaculture, such as its sustainability, cost-effectiveness, traceability, and environmental friendliness, and discusses the challenges and opportunities within the sector. It mentions the importance of aquaculture in addressing food security and environmental concerns, particularly with a growing consumer base that prioritizes the origin, production methods, and environmental impact of their food. The article concludes by emphasizing the resilience of the fish farming industry, even amidst challenges like disease, trade disputes, and currency fluctuations, and how it has adapted to the pandemic through innovation and pivoting towards direct consumer sales.