Seafood Consumption Among Youth and Adults: United States, August 2021-August 2023.

Abstract

Introduction: This report presents the percentage of youth and adults in the United States who consume seafood at least twice per week by sex and family income during August 2021-August 2023 and in 10-year trends. The most commonly consumed types of seafood also are presented.

Methods: Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey August 2021-August 2023 were analyzed to estimate the percentage of youth ages 2-19 years and adults age 20 and older in the United States consuming seafood at least twice per week and determine the most common types of seafood consumed in the past 30 days. Differences between groups were tested using a univariate t statistic. Tests for linear and nonlinear trends by family income were evaluated using orthogonal polynomials, and trends over time were tested using polynomial regression models, accounting for the unequal spacing and lengths of survey cycles. The significance level for statistical testing was set at p < 0.05. Examination sample weights were used for 2013-2014 to 2017-March 2020 cycles to account for the differential probabilities of selection, nonresponse, and noncoverage. Day 1 dietary sample weights were used for the August 2021-August 2023 cycle to account for additional nonresponse due to a change in dietary data collection mode from in-person to over the phone.

Key findings: During August 2021-August 2023, 7.7% of youth and 24.3% of adults consumed seafood at least twice per week. The percentage of adults who consumed seafood at least twice per week increased with increasing family income and over time between 2013-2014 and August 2021-August 2023. No significant change was seen over time among youth. Among both youth and adults, shrimp, salmon, tuna, and "other fish" were the most commonly consumed types of seafood in the past 30 days.