Frozen Mackerel Products — 11 Species, All Formats

Genus Scomber — The True Mackerels

The genus Scomber contains the most commercially significant mackerel species by global trade volume. Atlantic mackerel (Scomber scombrus) and Pacific mackerel (Scomber japonicus) together account for over 2.5 million tonnes of annual landings according to FAO data, making them the backbone of global frozen mackerel trade. All Scomber species are characterised by their high omega-3 fatty acid content, firm oily flesh and suitability for a wide range of frozen product formats.

Genus Trachurus — Horse & Jack Mackerels

The genus Trachurus — commonly known as horse mackerel or jack mackerel — represents four of the highest-volume species in global frozen fish trade. Trachurus species are particularly dominant in Sub-Saharan African markets, where frozen horse mackerel is a primary source of affordable animal protein. Chilean jack mackerel (Trachurus murphyi) from Peru is one of the largest volume frozen fish products traded globally, with annual landings exceeding 447,000 tonnes. Cape horse mackerel (Trachurus capensis) from South Africa and Namibia is a growing presence in African and Middle Eastern markets, while Japanese jack mackerel (Trachurus japonicus) serves the premium East Asian seafood sector.

Genus Rastrelliger — Indian & Short Mackerels

The genus Rastrelliger dominates frozen mackerel trade across South Asia, Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Indian mackerel (Rastrelliger kanagurta) is one of the most important food fish in the Indian Ocean region, with annual landings of over 326,000 tonnes. It is characterised by its distinctive flavour profile, moderate fat content and strong demand from markets in Egypt, UAE, Saudi Arabia, India and Southeast Asia. Short mackerel (Rastrelliger brachysoma) is closely related and traded in similar markets, often under the same commercial name.

Genus Scomberomorus — Spanish & King Mackerels

The genus Scomberomorus — the Spanish mackerels and king mackerels — occupies the premium segment of global mackerel trade. Narrow-barred Spanish mackerel (Scomberomorus commerson), widely known as kingfish across Middle Eastern and Asian markets, is one of the most valued food fish in the MENA region and commands the highest price per kilogram of any commercially traded mackerel. Japanese Spanish mackerel (Scomberomorus niphonius) is an important species in East Asian markets, particularly in Japan and South Korea where it is consumed both fresh and frozen. King mackerel (Scomberomorus cavalla) is traded globally as a premium frozen product.

Pack Formats & Specifications

All frozen mackerel species supplied by Global Mackerel are available in the standard international trade formats. Specifications can be customised to buyer requirements on minimum order quantities of one 20-foot reefer container.

frozen mackerel formats and specifications

Size Grades

Mackerel is traded in standardised size grades measured in grams per piece. The most commonly traded grades are:

• 100–200g — Small grade, Indian mackerel, jack mackerel, horse mackerel
• 200–300g — Medium-small, horse mackerel, Pacific mackerel
• 300–500g — Standard Atlantic mackerel, most traded grade globally
• 400–600g — Premium Atlantic mackerel, Japan and Korea specification
• 500–700g — Large Atlantic mackerel, premium European markets
• 600–800g — Extra large, Norway Q4 peak season
• 800g+ — Super premium, Japanese specification Atlantic mackerel

Certifications & Quality Standards

All frozen mackerel products supplied by Global Mackerel are sourced exclusively from certified processing facilities. We supply full documentation on every shipment including catch certificates, health certificates, certificate of origin and cold chain records.

certified frozen mackerel supplier

Frequently Asked Questions — Frozen Mackerel Products

What frozen mackerel formats are available?

All species are available in whole round (WR) as standard. Atlantic and Pacific mackerel are additionally available in headless and gutted (H&G), IQF fillets and butterfly fillet formats. Horse mackerel, jack mackerel and Indian mackerel are primarily traded as whole round or BQF block. Specifications vary by origin and season — contact us to confirm availability for your required specification.

What is the glazing percentage on frozen mackerel?

Standard glazing is 10–15% depending on species and processing facility. Custom glazing percentages can be specified on request. Net weight is always stated on the carton label. We recommend buyers specify net weight requirements clearly in their purchase order to avoid disputes on delivery.

What is the shelf life of frozen mackerel?

Frozen mackerel stored continuously at −18°C has a shelf life of 18–24 months depending on species and glazing. Atlantic mackerel with higher fat content (above 18%) should ideally be consumed within 18 months to avoid oxidative rancidity. All shipments include production date and best-before date on carton labels.

Can Global Mackerel supply private label frozen mackerel?

Yes. We offer private label packaging on minimum order quantities of one 40-foot container. Custom carton design, labelling in any language and retail-ready packaging are available. Contact us to discuss your specification.