Why do Europeans generally consume more seafood than Americans?
Seafood is more available in Europe. In Canada for example because of its size fresh seafood is very limited. Seafood is often frozen and rarely fresh at any time of year. The coastal areas are different. In general Europeans have a healthier diet and have more appreciation for good food than North Americans have. Eating reflects a way of life and in America everything is processed, high fat and instant. It’s the place where more is better. For that reason Americans will continue to consume great amounts of beef and pork. Seafood will always compliment the North American diet but will never take first place. Americas image is beer and beef Europe’s is seafood, wine and a touch of passion.
According to a recent study, Europeans consume twice as much seafood in their daily diets compared to Americans. This is in part due to the availability of seafood on the coastal regions of Europe, such as Italy, Greece and Spain. Due to the size and expanse of the United States, however, much of the country is not located by the ocean — thus, a lack of readily available fresh seafood throughout most of the midwestern states. Another factor is European countries’ traditional diets, compared to typical American cuisine. While much of European cuisine focuses on fresh foods from local markets and lighter fare, the standard American meal consists of "meat and potatoes." There is also a greater emphasis on processed or prepackaged foods in the American diet. The reliance on mass-produced food products at supermarkets and fast food chains like McDonald’s and Burger King generally steers the American diet away from foods like fresh seafood.
