An article from Mexico News Daily stated that similar to other Catholic nations, Mexico normally follows the 'no meat on Fridays' tradition rule in the celebration of the Lenten season. The avoidance of eating meat on Fridays had usually made locals decide to consume fish and other types of seafood. The high price of these 'meat' substitutes for lent does not make it look like penance.

 For 20th century Mexicans, the substitute idea of meat for the Lent season was not a practical decision. The majority of the history of the country reveals that an average Mexican local cannot afford meat. The high prices of seafood make it an impossible purchase for an average citizen of Mexico.

Seafood is rare for Mesoamerican diets. Also, it was viewed by many as the food of rich people. Due to the poverty felt throughout the entire nation, citizens cannot enjoy the good things that life has to offer. 

Mexico's the State of Religiousness 

Currently, Mexico had transformed into a less religious nation compared to the past. A majority of the country's population identify themselves as Catholics. However, many of the Catholics in Mexico do not strictly follow the rules of their religion. The most common practice observed currently by the people in the country is of cultural significance. It is the reason why the avoidance of consuming meat during Lent in Mexico is not widely observed by Mexican Catholics. In restaurants, they serve special fish dishes but still offer their regular meat products during the Lenten season. 

Meat Consumption by Mexicans during Lent

During Lent in Mexico, meat consumption drops by 30%. This is a significant boost in the seafood industry of Mexico. As the demand increases, so does the price. Restaurants raise good profits during lent, especially in regions where residents are not experienced in cooking seafood.

Obedience to Lent Rules

The strict obedience to the rules of the lent season had resulted in numerous traditions. These traditions can still be observed until today. In rural regions, Carnival celebrations and the Holy Week is still being observed. 

Reasons why they still choose Fish on Lent Despite its High Prices

One good reason for the continuous observation of lent rules is its time of celebration. Lent is celebrated in the dry season of Mexico. This is the season where indigenous people spend the time to reflect and perform rituals to make sure that the next growing season will be prosperous. 

One noticeable reason for the frequent consumption of seafood every Friday during Lent in Mexico is the 11,000 km coastline of the country. The four major commercial fishing locations in the country are Sinaloa, Sonora, Veracruz, and Baja California. The inland waters of Mexico do not equate to the one the United States or Canada has. However, the construction of reservoirs in modern times had allowed the creation of habitats for fish. 

 Aquaculture entered the Mexican market in the 19th century. During this time, the rainbow trout farms were created along Mexican mountain streams. This was made to serve as an alternative protein in the country. Currently, trout farming is still produced in high quantities in central Mexico.