Mon, 16 Feb 2026

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 Never mind cod, it's tilapia and chips please

Two fish and chip shops in Fenland are trying lesser known varieties of fish as cod prices soar.
Fenland fish and chip shops are adapting to rising cod and haddock prices by sourcing alternative fish from new areas. The National Federation of Fish Friers attributes the shortage of cod in the Barents Sea to reduced catches, but sees an opportunity for consumers to try new varieties. Some shop owners have already made the switch. Miguel Costa, who runs a fish and chip shop in March, Cambridgeshire, has been selling tilapia since March and reports that customers love it. He says locals were initially hesitant but now see the value of trying new fish options. Other shops are following suit, with Mark Petrou of Chatteris predicting that hake, pollock, and saithe will eventually surpass cod in popularity due to their affordability and sustainability. The National Federation's president, Andrew Crook, notes that many shops are now incorporating alternative fish into their menus to supplement traditional options. He highlights tilapia as a cheaper alternative to cod, which can be farmed at a lower cost than imported cod. Costa estimates that tilapia is £4 cheaper per large portion compared to cod, making it an attractive option for customers. Petrou also emphasizes the benefits of hake and pollock, citing their affordability and sustainability. The shift towards new fish varieties may indicate a broader trend in the industry, as consumers become more adventurous with their choices.
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