Atlantic Cod Is Back: Kata Seafoods Now Offering Premium Canadian Atlantic Cod

Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhua) is once again available through Kata Seafoods.

For generations, Atlantic cod has been one of the most important and recognizable fish in Canada's North Atlantic fishing industry. Known for its mild flavour, lean white flesh, large flakes and exceptional versatility, Atlantic cod has long been a staple for restaurants, seafood distributors, retailers and foodservice operators throughout North America.

After a period of limited availability, Atlantic Cod is once again becoming available to the market, creating new opportunities for buyers looking for a dependable source of high-quality Canadian cod.

Kata Seafoods is pleased to now offer Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhua) to our wholesale customers.

Atlantic Cod

A Classic North Atlantic Species

Atlantic Cod, scientifically known as Gadus morhua, is a cold-water groundfish found throughout the North Atlantic.

In Canada, Atlantic cod has historically been an important commercial species, particularly along the coastlines of Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia and other Atlantic Canadian fishing regions.

The species is easily recognized by its elongated body, distinctive lateral line and characteristic chin barbel. It is a bottom-dwelling fish that thrives in cold marine waters.

For seafood buyers, however, Atlantic cod is best known for what is on the plate:

• Mild, clean flavour

• Lean white flesh

• Large, tender flakes

• Firm but delicate texture

• Excellent versatility

• Broad consumer appeal

• Suitable for numerous cooking applications

Canadian Atlantic cod is also an important part of Canada's seafood heritage and continues to play a role in the country's commercial fishing industry.

Why Atlantic Cod Is Becoming Available Again

The availability of Atlantic cod has changed considerably over the years as different Canadian cod stocks have experienced periods of rebuilding, management changes and restricted fishing opportunities.

In June 2026, Fisheries and Oceans Canada announced a significant increase in the Total Allowable Catch for Northern cod in NAFO Divisions 2J3KL, increasing the TAC from 38,000 tonnes to 59,000 tonnes. DFO reported that Northern cod had entered the healthy zone for the first time since the 1992 moratorium.

This represents an important development for the Canadian fishing industry and for the availability of Northern cod to commercial markets.

Preliminary 2026 DFO landing data also shows active Atlantic cod landings in Newfoundland and Labrador, with more than 8,400 tonnes reported across the listed NAFO divisions as of late July 2026.

It is important to recognize that Atlantic cod is made up of several separately managed stocks, and management decisions differ by fishing area. Some stocks remain under rebuilding measures and restrictions.

The result is a changing marketplace in which responsibly managed Canadian Atlantic cod is becoming an increasingly attractive product for seafood buyers looking to secure supply.

The Return of a Seafood Industry Favourite

Atlantic cod has a reputation that few other whitefish can match.

For decades, cod has been a cornerstone of traditional seafood markets throughout Canada, the United States and Europe. It is a familiar species to consumers and an easy product for chefs to incorporate into menus.

Its mild flavour allows Atlantic cod to work with a wide range of seasonings, sauces and preparation methods without overpowering the dish.

The flesh is naturally white and produces the large, distinctive flakes that consumers associate with quality cod.

This makes Atlantic cod particularly well suited to:

• Fish and chips

• Pan-seared cod

• Oven-baked cod

• Grilled cod

• Breaded and battered products

• Fish tacos

• Seafood sandwiches

• Fish cakes

• Chowders and soups

• Pasta dishes

• Seafood bowls

• Institutional and foodservice menus

• Retail seafood counters

For chefs and foodservice operators, this versatility can make Atlantic cod an especially valuable addition to a seafood program.

A Mild, Lean and Versatile Whitefish

One of the biggest advantages of Atlantic cod is its approachable flavour.

Unlike some stronger-flavoured seafood species, cod has a mild, clean taste that works well with both simple and complex preparations.

The flesh is naturally lean and high in protein. According to Seafood from Canada, a 100-gram serving of Atlantic cod contains approximately 19 grams of protein and only 0.4 grams of fat.

That nutritional profile, combined with its mild flavour and versatility, has helped make cod one of the world's most popular whitefish.

Atlantic Cod Product Availability

At Kata Seafoods, we are now offering Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhua) as part of our growing selection of Atlantic Canadian seafood products.

Atlantic cod can be supplied in a variety of commercial product forms depending on market requirements and availability.

Common Atlantic cod product forms include:

• Frozen fillets

• Frozen loins

• H&G (headed and gutted)

• HOG (headed, gutted and other commercial forms depending on specification)

• Whole fish

• Bacalao (Salted cod)

• Tails

• Cheeks

• Tongues

• Blocks

• Minced cod

Canadian seafood industry resources identify both fresh and frozen Atlantic cod products across these forms, including fillets, loins, H&G, HOG, tails, cheeks, tongues, blocks and salted products.

Kata Seafoods can work with buyers to determine the appropriate product form, pack size and specifications for their market.

Why Buy Atlantic Cod from Kata Seafoods?

At Kata Seafoods, our focus is on connecting professional seafood buyers with high-quality products from Canada's Atlantic fisheries.

We understand that wholesale seafood buyers need more than simply a fish species.

They need:

Reliable supply

Availability can change quickly in the seafood industry. We work with our supply partners to provide customers with current information on product availability.

Consistent specifications

Restaurants, distributors, retailers and foodservice companies need products that meet their particular requirements. We work with buyers to identify the appropriate size, form and packaging specifications.

Canadian Atlantic seafood

Our focus is on sourcing and supplying seafood from Canada's Atlantic region, giving buyers access to some of the world's most recognized cold-water seafood products.

Wholesale service

Kata Seafoods works with professional buyers, distributors, foodservice companies, retailers and other commercial seafood customers.

Responsibly Managed Canadian Fisheries

Sustainability and responsible fisheries management are important considerations when purchasing Atlantic seafood.

Canadian Atlantic fisheries are managed through federal fisheries management systems that incorporate scientific advice, stock assessments, harvesting rules and conservation measures.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada maintains management plans and rebuilding plans for different Atlantic cod stocks and fishing areas.

The fact that Atlantic cod stocks are managed individually is important. There is no single management status that applies equally to every Atlantic cod stock.

For example, the 2026 Northern cod management decision reflects improved stock status and increased fishing opportunity, while other cod stocks continue to require rebuilding measures.

For seafood buyers, understanding the origin and management area of the product is an important part of making informed purchasing decisions.

Atlantic Cod from the Northwest Atlantic

Canadian Atlantic cod comes from the cold waters of the Northwest Atlantic, an environment that has supported Canada's commercial fishing industry for centuries.

Seafood from Canada identifies the Northwest Atlantic as the catch range for Canadian Atlantic cod and notes that the species thrives in Canada's cold North Atlantic waters.

The cold-water environment is one of the defining characteristics of Atlantic Canadian seafood.

Along with lobster, snow crab, scallops, turbot, ocean perch and other species, Atlantic cod is part of the diverse seafood resources found in Canada's Atlantic waters.

Atlantic Cod vs. Other Whitefish

For wholesale buyers, Atlantic cod occupies a particularly useful position in the whitefish category.

Compared with many other whitefish species, cod offers a combination of:

• Recognizable name

• Familiar consumer demand

• Mild flavour

• Large flakes

• Lean flesh

• Versatile preparation

• Broad menu applications

• Strong foodservice appeal

This makes it an excellent option for businesses looking to offer a familiar, premium whitefish without introducing an unfamiliar species to their customers.

How Chefs Use Atlantic Cod

Atlantic cod can be prepared in virtually any style a chef requires.

Classic Fish and Chips

Cod's large flakes and mild flavour make it one of the classic choices for battered and fried fish.

Pan-Seared Cod

A simple pan sear can create a golden exterior while keeping the interior tender and flaky.

Oven-Baked Cod

Cod works particularly well with lemon, herbs, garlic, butter and olive oil for a simple baked preparation.

Grilled Cod

With the right preparation, cod can be grilled and served with vegetables, grains, potatoes or fresh salads.

Fish Tacos

Its mild flavour makes cod an excellent base for tacos with slaw, fresh salsa, lime and other toppings.

Seafood Chowders

Cod can also be incorporated into seafood chowders and soups, where its delicate flavour complements other seafood ingredients.

Fish Cakes

Cod has long been used in fish cakes and other value-added seafood preparations.

The possibilities are extensive, which is one reason Atlantic cod remains such a commercially important whitefish.

A Strong Addition to a Wholesale Seafood Program

For seafood distributors and foodservice operators, Atlantic cod can provide an opportunity to add a highly recognizable species to their product lineup.

Because consumers already know and understand cod, there is little education required to introduce the product to a menu or retail seafood case.

For distributors, the species can also complement other Atlantic Canadian seafood products.

A seafood program featuring snow crab, lobster, scallops, turbot, ocean perch and Atlantic cod gives buyers access to a diverse selection of products from Canada's Atlantic fisheries.

Atlantic Cod for Restaurants and Foodservice

Restaurants continue to look for seafood products that offer flexibility across menus.

Atlantic cod can be used as a main entrée, lunch special, sandwich filling, taco protein, fried seafood offering or component of a larger seafood dish.

Its neutral flavour also allows restaurants to create different preparations without needing to change the underlying seafood product.

For foodservice operators, that flexibility can make Atlantic cod a practical choice for both traditional and modern menus.

Atlantic Cod for Seafood Distributors

For distributors, having access to a dependable source of Atlantic cod can provide another option when building a diversified whitefish portfolio.

Kata Seafoods works with commercial seafood buyers to provide product information and discuss current availability, specifications and packaging requirements.

Because seafood supply can change based on fishing conditions, quotas, seasons and market demand, we encourage buyers to contact us directly for the latest Atlantic cod availability and specifications.

The Kata Seafoods Difference

Kata Seafoods was established with a simple goal: to connect professional buyers with quality seafood from Canada's Atlantic region.

Today, we supply wholesale customers with a selection of Atlantic Canadian seafood, including snow crab, lobster, scallops, turbot, ocean perch and now Atlantic cod.

Our approach is straightforward:

Quality seafood. Reliable communication. Wholesale service.

We work directly with commercial buyers to understand their requirements and help identify the right product for their market.

Atlantic Cod Is Available from Kata Seafoods

The return of Atlantic cod availability is an exciting development for Canada's seafood industry and for buyers looking to source this iconic North Atlantic species.

With its mild flavour, large flakes, lean white flesh and exceptional versatility, Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhua) remains one of the most recognizable and useful whitefish products available to the North American seafood market.

Kata Seafoods is proud to add Atlantic cod to our wholesale seafood offering.

Looking for Atlantic Cod for your restaurant, seafood distribution business, retail operation or foodservice program?

Contact Kata Seafoods to discuss current availability, product specifications, packaging and wholesale requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions About Atlantic Cod

What is Atlantic Cod?

Atlantic Cod is a cold-water marine fish scientifically known as Gadus morhua. It is one of the most commercially important cod species in the North Atlantic.

Where does Atlantic Cod come from?

Canadian Atlantic cod is harvested from the cold waters of the Northwest Atlantic, including fishing areas off Canada's Atlantic provinces and Newfoundland and Labrador.

Is Atlantic Cod available again in Canada?

Atlantic cod availability varies by stock, fishing area and management measures. In 2026, Northern cod received a significant increase in its commercial TAC, while other Atlantic cod stocks remain under rebuilding measures.

What does Atlantic Cod taste like?

Atlantic cod has a mild, clean flavour and lean white flesh with large flakes. Its relatively mild taste makes it suitable for a wide range of recipes and cuisines.

Is Atlantic Cod good for restaurants?

Yes. Its mild flavour, large flakes and versatility make Atlantic cod suitable for fish and chips, baked dishes, grilled preparations, tacos, sandwiches, chowders, fish cakes and many other menu applications.

Does Kata Seafoods sell Atlantic Cod wholesale?

Yes. Kata Seafoods now offers Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhua) to commercial seafood buyers. Contact us for current availability, product forms, specifications and packaging options.

Can Kata Seafoods provide custom Atlantic Cod specifications?

Product forms, sizes, packaging and availability can vary. Contact our sales team to discuss your specific requirements.

Source & Industry Information

Information regarding Canadian Atlantic cod fisheries and 2026 management decisions is based on publicly available information from Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Seafood from Canada. Fisheries management decisions can change, and product availability may vary according to fishing area, season, quota, weather, landings and market conditions.

Ready to source Atlantic Cod?

Contact Kata Seafoods for current wholesale availability and product specifications.