As National Fish and Chip Day approaches on June 2, people all over the country are gearing up to celebrate their love for this classic British dish. From fish and chip shops to restaurants, pub chains, retailers, fishermen, and farmers, the nation is ready to indulge in this iconic family favourite.
To coincide with this year’s National Fish and Chip Day, the National Fish and Chip Day team conducted The Great British Fish and Chip Survey 2023, a nationwide online survey that ran from April 13, 2023, to May 22, 2023. The survey aimed to uncover people’s preferences when it comes to fish and chips.
Here are the key findings from the survey:
- Favourite thing to have on fish and chips:
- Salt and vinegar emerged as the clear favourite, with 64% of respondents choosing it.
- 16% opted for just salt, surpassing ketchup, which received 5% of the votes.
- Favourite thing to have with fish and chips:
- Mushy peas came out on top as the preferred accompaniment, with 40% of respondents selecting it.
- 13% of participants chose to enjoy their fish and chips on their own, while another 13% preferred to add tartare sauce.
- Favourite fish to have with chips:
- Cod was the most favoured fish, with 55% of respondents choosing it.
- Haddock followed closely behind with 38% of the votes. Notably, 72% of Scots preferred haddock over cod.
- Eat in or takeaway:
- 89% of people preferred to take their fish and chips away, while only 4% opted for delivery.
- The survey highlighted the enduring appeal of visiting local chip shops and enjoying freshly cooked fish and chips on the spot.
- Favourite place to eat fish and chips:
- Home emerged as the favourite place to enjoy fish and chips, with 43% of respondents selecting it.
- The seaside was a close second, attracting 34% of the votes.
- Importance of MSC Blue Tick standard:
- There was a fairly even split in opinion regarding the importance of the MSC Blue Tick for sustainable fishing.
- 37% stated that they would only buy fish and chips from shops with the Blue Tick, while 39% said it did not influence their choice of shop.
The survey also explored regional variations, revealing interesting preferences across different parts of the UK. For example:
- The East of England showed a higher preference for just salt with their fish and chips.
- The North West had a higher inclination towards having a bread roll with their meal.
- The South East favoured curry sauce more than any other region.
- In Scotland, tartare sauce was more popular than mushy peas.
- London residents showed a greater preference for plaice compared to other regions.
For specific regional results or further information, contact Josie at jo@risecommunications.co.uk or call 07734 050238. Interviews with national award-winning fish and chip shops, industry experts, and local shop recommendations can also be arranged.
Get ready to celebrate National Fish and Chip Day and indulge in this beloved British culinary tradition!
