Are you a seafood lover on a budget? Do you crave the succulent taste of lobster but don’t want to break the bank?
Look no further! We’ve scoured the globe to find the cheapest lobster prices out there. From Portland to Nova Scotia, we’ve got the inside scoop on where to find the best deals on this delicious crustacean.
But with the recent outbreak of COVID-19, the lobster industry has taken a hit, causing prices to drop dramatically. So, where can you find the best deals on lobster in this new market?
Keep reading to find out!
Where Is The Cheapest Lobster In The World?
The cheapest lobster in the world can currently be found in the Portland area, where retailers are selling small soft-shell lobsters for an unusually low price of $3.79 to $4.99 per pound. In fact, at those prices, lobsters have been selling for less than the per-pound price of bologna at many supermarket deli counters.
But if you’re looking for a wider variety of lobster dishes and a more authentic experience, Nova Scotia is the place to go. As the world’s largest exporter of lobster, there is no shortage of this delicious seafood on menus throughout the province. Nearly every town and village boasts a restaurant with the word “lobster” in its name, and there are festivals devoted to the crustacean at Shelburne, Digby, and Pictou.
The lobster season in Nova Scotia runs from May to July, but fresh lobster appears on menus year-round thanks to lobster pounds. These are large, fenced-off areas of the ocean where captive lobsters live until required. New technology has also led to huge dry-land holding facilities being built.
But with the recent spread of COVID-19, the lobster industry has taken a hit worldwide. The knock-on effect of travel bans around China has meant that their usual boom in lobster sales for events such as Chinese New Year has dropped and even ceased to occur in some countries. Lobster exports to places like China have fallen at a vast rate, causing prices to drop dramatically.
Despite this, we cannot guarantee lower prices than another lobster company if they do not guarantee your lobsters are hardshell and alive when you receive them. It’s important to ensure that you’re getting high-quality, fresh lobster no matter where you buy it from.
The Impact Of COVID-19 On The Lobster Industry
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the lobster industry globally. The restrictions on travel and movement have affected the production and distribution of food worldwide, including seafood. The lobster market, in particular, has taken a massive hit due to the pandemic. Analysts suggest that COVID-19 protective measures implemented in March 2020 across the United States and worldwide immediately impacted the seafood sector. The lobster industry was faced with weak demand, which resulted in low production. Even giant lobster industries like Maine were discouraged from harvesting by the authorities.
Seafood restaurants have also reported finding it difficult to keep up with customer demand for lobsters, due to a shortage of available supply. As a result, prices for live lobsters have gone up by about 40% since the outbreak started in May 2019. This has made it even more difficult for lobster fishermen to make ends meet financially as fewer restaurants are willing to buy lobsters at such a high rate.
COVID-19 continues to impact both the live and frozen lobster markets for Canadian exporters. The pandemic has slowed down the COVID-19 recovery that was enjoyed in late 2021 and early 2022. COVID-19 shutdowns of cities like Shanghai and slowdowns in Beijing have cut exports to China for March and April. The war in Ukraine and COVID-19 fears have also played a part, as well as worldwide inflationary pressures.
Despite these challenges, the lobster industry is optimistic about its future. Marketing initiatives and strategies for Canadian seafood continue, with campaigns planned using Instagram and menu creation by Chef Ambassadors. The Lobster Council of Canada is also focused on engaging, informing, and building relationships with environmental groups, non-governmental organizations, trade associations, Canadian Trade Commissioners, provincial and federal government officials, and the lobster sector focused on market access challenges such as lobster welfare/sentience, North Atlantic right whale mitigation measures, post-pandemic food safety, sustainability, and non-tariff trade barriers in China, Europe, and the United States.
As we head into summer 2022, everyone is hoping that the market will stabilize as COVID-19 slows down, food inflation and gas prices stabilize, and the world fully reopens again.
Cheapest Lobster Prices In North America
If you’re looking for the cheapest lobster prices in North America, then the Portland area is your best bet. Retailers are currently selling small soft-shell lobsters for an unusually low price of $3.79 to $4.99 per pound, which is even cheaper than the per-pound price of bologna at many supermarket deli counters.
However, if you’re looking for a wider variety of lobster dishes and a more authentic experience, then Nova Scotia is the place to go. As the world’s largest exporter of lobster, there is no shortage of this delicious seafood on menus throughout the province. Despite recent setbacks due to COVID-19 and travel bans, Nova Scotia remains a great destination for lobster lovers looking for high-quality, fresh lobster at reasonable prices.
It’s important to note that while prices may fluctuate based on various factors such as seasonality and demand, it’s crucial to ensure that you’re getting high-quality, sustainably caught hard-shell live lobsters no matter where you buy them from. The LobsterGuy, for example, is a highly rated online lobster and seafood delivery company known not only for their best prices but also for their excellent all-around service and perfect product.
Affordable Lobster In Europe And Asia
If you’re looking for affordable lobster in Europe and Asia, Bangkok is a great option. While the words “cheap” and “lobster” may not typically go together, you can find reasonably priced warm water lobsters at seafood restaurants in Bangkok. Cold water lobsters may be a bit harder to find and will likely be more expensive.
To save money, it’s best to avoid high-end restaurants and rooftop bars in the center of Bangkok. Instead, venture out to places like Samut Prakan or use the Eatigo app to find discounts on seafood restaurants.
If you’re willing to travel a bit further, Nova Scotia is also a great option for affordable lobster. As the world’s largest exporter of lobster, there is no shortage of this delicious seafood on menus throughout the province. While prices may vary depending on the season and location, there are plenty of options for those looking for a good deal on lobster.
However, with the recent impact of COVID-19 on the lobster industry, prices may have fluctuated in both Bangkok and Nova Scotia. It’s important to do your research and ensure that you’re getting high-quality, fresh lobster no matter where you buy it from.
Tips For Buying Cheap Lobster Without Sacrificing Quality
If you’re on a budget but still want to enjoy the delicious taste of lobster, there are some tips you can follow to ensure you’re getting the best quality for your money.
Firstly, look for soft-shell lobsters. These are typically cheaper than hard-shell lobsters, but still have a great taste. Soft-shell lobsters have recently molted, meaning their shells are softer and easier to crack open.
Next, consider buying lobsters online. Online retailers often offer lower prices than traditional brick-and-mortar stores, and you can compare prices from different retailers to find the best deal. Just make sure to read reviews and check the company’s reputation before making a purchase.
Another way to save money on lobster is to buy in bulk. Many retailers offer discounts when you purchase a certain amount of lobster at once. This can be a great option if you’re planning a lobster feast or want to freeze some for later.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to haggle with your local seafood market or fishmonger. If they have an abundance of lobsters and are looking to move their inventory quickly, they may be willing to negotiate on price.
Remember, while it’s important to save money, it’s also crucial to ensure you’re getting high-quality, fresh lobster. Always check for signs of freshness such as clear eyes and firm shells, and avoid lobsters with missing or nibbled antennae as this could indicate they’ve been in the tank for too long.
How To Cook Lobster On A Budget: Delicious Recipes To Try At Home
Cooking lobster at home can be a great way to enjoy this delicious seafood without breaking the bank. Boiling is one of the most popular and easiest methods of cooking lobster. To boil a lobster, fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add sea salt to the pot and then place the lobster into the pot head-first, making sure it’s completely submerged. Cook for about 8 minutes per pound of lobster until the shell turns bright red and the meat is no longer translucent.
If you’re looking for some delicious and budget-friendly lobster recipes to try at home, we’ve got you covered. One easy recipe is Lobster Roll Pasta Salad, which combines the flavors of a classic lobster roll with pasta salad. Another great recipe is Lobster Bisque, which is a creamy and indulgent soup that’s perfect for cooler weather. For a more substantial meal, try Lobster Mac and Cheese, which is a rich and decadent dish that’s sure to impress your guests.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try making Lobster Tacos or Lobster Paella for a unique twist on traditional seafood dishes. And if you’re looking for something healthier, try our homemade Lobster Rolls recipe that won’t break the bank.
No matter what recipe you choose, remember that using fresh ingredients is key to making delicious lobster dishes. So be sure to source your lobster from a reputable supplier and enjoy this luxurious seafood in the comfort of your own home.
