MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Grilled calamari the sensation of UK summer boosted by the Dukan diet

Squid sales have soared in recent months

As Brits become more adventurous in the kitchen, sales of squid have soared. Calamari is set to be a summer sensation, due in part to the popularity of the Dukan diet.

Mediterranean food is increasing in popularity as health conscious consumers discover such tasty delights as extra virgin olive oil, Greek yogurt and calamari.

Visitors to European hot-spots such as Greece and Spain have long been able to enjoy traditional dishes such as grilled calamari, deep fried squid rings and calamari in red wine sauce.

Now the tentacle seafood is tempting dieters too, due to its inclusion on the list of 100 foods allowed on the French Dukan diet.

The Telegraph reports that Waitrose said “that sales of whole imported squid have risen by 230% in recent months compared to last year” as “Brits are going mad for squid this year.“

Sainsburys and Tescos have also noted rising sales.

John Adams of the National Federation of Fishmongers said sales of squid to restaurants have also increased, explaining ”Up until a few years ago the catering industry never touched squid. But you have to follow trends and people’s tastes. You have to follow the whims of the customer.”

Barbecued calamari is set to be this summer's sensation, but followers of the Dukan diet will have to forgo the joys of deep fried calamari.

In related news FAO annual reports indicates that Spain squid imports dropped 33% during 2011, attributed in great extent to the ongoing critical situation of its economy.