From April to the end of 2007, TNS looked at sales of newer fish species versus those already well-established in French supermarkets and hypermarkets. Around 6 percent of households, mainly from rural areas with modest incomes were attracted to tilapia and pangasius, the survey found.

Researchers looked at the species the group bought previously to judge whether new consumers are being attracted to the fresh counter. Researchers found they were previously buying less expensive fresh fish such as Nile perch.

“They have moved into pangasius because it’s not expensive and because they like to vary the species they buy,” said Sandrine Cayeux, business unit manager.

Converts