The Scottish Shellfish Farm Production survey, released by Marine Scotland, shows that mussel production across Scotland reached a new high in 2024, with 11,690 tonnes produced.

Shetland is the highest shellfish-producing region in Scotland, bringing 10,234 tonnes of mussels to market, 87% of Scotland’s overall total, and 20,000 Shetland Pacific oysters – up significantly from 3,000 in 2023.

Ruth Henderson, chief executive of Seafood Shetland, said: “The survey confirms that Shetland continues to dominate Scotland’s shellfish production. Our sales value has increased from £9.7 million in 2023 to £10.7 million in 2024. This, of course, is just a small part of the value that the industry generates for Shetland. Shellfish farming directly supports 95 jobs in rural communities and, indirectly, supports many service companies, local shops and others.

“We can all be very proud of what Shetland shellfish growers have achieved – not only are they supplying a product that is highly nutritious and an environmentally sustainable source of protein, their focus on quality, has resulted in Shetland shellfish attracting a premium, remaining the preferred choice for major retailers and premium hospitality markets.”