Abstract:
Trincomalee district had abundant fish resources and favourable climatic condition for dry
fish production. This study attempted to determine the status and the factors affecting
consumption of different types of dry fish in Trincomalee district. The study was done in 3
Divisional secretariat divisions and 90 consumers were used in the study. Results of the
study revealed that mean household income of consumers per month was Rs.27200.00. 30%
of consumers preferred to eat Thunnus albacores because of its high fleshness. Khuro nemus
was mostly consumed once in two weeks due to its higher taste than fresh fish. The average
expenditure on purchasing Anchoviella sp. dry fish was Rs.462.50 per month per household.
When compared the different type of dry fish, Anchoviella sp. was purchased in highest
amount and it was 0.88kg per month. Multiple regression results revealed that family size,
income and distance between market and home were significantly and positively influenced
expenditure on Anchoviella sp. dry fish consumption. But for Amplicaster sp, only family
size and distance significantly and positively influenced the expenditure. But for Khuro
nemus species income and distance significantly and positively affected the expenditure
while education level of the head of the household negatively affected the expenditure. Majority
of the consumers stated price fluctuation as the major problem. Based on results it is
expected that demand for dry fish will remain high in the long term and may even
increase if product quality is improved. It is suggested that improvement of processing
technology would benefit consumers.
