It's official – Britain is crazy for salmon!New figures released by Salmon Scotland have revealed how demand for the humble fish has soared over the last year.Sales are up 7.3 per cent, with more than 81,000 tonnes of salmon sold in the 12 months to April. So, what's behind this surge? According to Tavish Scott, chief executive of Salmon Scotland, the increase in sales is partly being driven by health–conscious diners.'At a time when overall fish sales are flat, salmon is bucking the trend, with more people choosing it for everyday meals, summer gatherings, and special occasions,' he explained. The news will come as no surprise to many fans, who regularly take to social media to share their favourite salmon recipes. 'If you're looking for a super quick summer mid–week meal then look no further than my garlic crumbed salmon with courgettes and yoghurt,' @emthenutritionist said.@whatwilly added: 'Salmon and kale for dinner sounds like utter healthy woke nonsense. But I'm going to make some delicious sesame kale noodles to go with some lovely spicy salmon, and I think that might be delicious.'The news will come as no surprise to many fans, who regularly take to social media to share their favourite salmon recipesOverall, sales of fish in the UK have remained largely unchanged over the last year. However, salmon bucks the trend, according to Salmon Scotland. Sales have surged to almost £1.6 billion, with salmon accounting for almost a third of all fish sales in the UK and one fifth of total fish volumes.Fresh salmon accounted for £1.47 billion of total sales, including £481 million worth of smoked salmon. Scottish salmon also remains the UK's largest food export, generating more than £1 billion annually for the economy, Salmon Scotland reveals. 'These figures show salmon's popularity continues to grow with shoppers across the UK,' Mr Scott said. 'That demand is being seen at home and overseas, with Scottish salmon remaining the UK's largest food export. 'That is good news for consumers and good news for Scotland's coastal communities, where salmon farming supports jobs, investment, and economic growth.'Sales have surged to almost £1.6 billion, with salmon accounting for almost a third of all fish sales in the UK and one fifth of total fish volumesThe NHS recommends eating at least two portions of fish a week, including one of oily fish, such as salmon. 'Oily fish – such as salmon and sardines – is particularly high in long–chain omega–3 fatty acids, which can help to keep your heart healthy,' it explained. This hasn't gone unnoticed by health–conscious youngsters, who often post their favourite salmon recipes on TikTok. @tylerbutt_eats posted a recipe for 'Marry Me Salmon Pasta', quipping: 'This is how cooking should be!'Meanwhile, @amyrebeccaowen shared her recipe for a smoked salmon sandwich, simply saying: 'It's unbelievable.'The news comes shortly after Tesco revealed how demand for tuna has soared over the last two years. Sales are up nearly 18 per cent – which is the equivalent to an additional 2.25 million kilograms. Lee Bannerman, Tesco tinned fish buyer, said: 'Tinned fish is at the height of culinary fashion and is being driven by younger shoppers who have tuned into the fact that it is a cheap and convenient way of boosting their protein intake.' What should a balanced diet look like? • Eat at least 5 portions of a variety of fruit and vegetables every day. All fresh, frozen, dried and canned fruit and vegetables count• Base meals on potatoes, bread, rice, pasta or other starchy carbohydrates, ideally wholegrain• 30 grams of fibre a day: This is the same as eating all of the following: 5 portions of fruit and vegetables, 2 whole–wheat cereal biscuits, 2 thick slices of wholemeal bread and large baked potato with the skin on• Have some dairy or dairy alternatives (such as soya drinks) choosing lower fat and lower sugar options• Eat some beans, pulses, fish, eggs, meat and other proteins (including 2 portions of fish every week, one of which should be oily)• Choose unsaturated oils and spreads and consuming in small amounts• Drink 6–8 cups/glasses of water a day• Adults should have less than 6g of salt and 20g of saturated fat for women or 30g for men a daySource: NHS Eatwell Guide