Giant squid export from Chile: cuts, grades and logistics
Giant squid (Dosidicus gigas) — also known as Humboldt squid or jibia — is one of Chile's most important cephalopod exports, with strong demand in Japan, Korea, China and Southeast Asia. FoodCorp Chile captures and processes giant squid at its Coronel plant in the Gulf of Arauco. Here is how import buyers should approach sourcing.
Cuts and formats
Importers typically buy:
- Whole round — for industrial processing in destination markets.
- Fillets (tubes) — cleaned body tubes, the highest-value cut for retail and foodservice.
- Tentacles, wings and rings — popular foodservice cuts, available IQF or block.
- Tentacle cut — portioned tentacle pieces to specification.
Size grading
Giant squid is graded by whole-weight equivalent: 0–2 kg, 2–4 kg and 4 kg+. Specify the grade in your PO — larger squid generally yield bigger tubes and command different pricing.
IQF vs block
IQF ( individually quick frozen) suits retail and foodservice buyers who need separated pieces. Block-frozen and carton-packed (20 kg net) formats suit industrial reprocessors. Blast tunnel freezing is standard; confirm the method in your specification.
Working with a Coronel processor
Sourcing direct from FoodCorp means one contact for capture, processing, documentation and shipment — with BRC and HACCP systems and FAO Area 87 traceability. Send your cut list, size grade and monthly volume and we'll reply with availability and pricing.
Frequently asked questions
What is the scientific name for giant squid?
Dosidicus gigas — also known as Humboldt squid or jumbo flying squid, wild-caught in the South Pacific off Chile.
What size grades are standard?
0–2 kg, 2–4 kg and 4 kg+ whole-weight equivalent, across fillets, tentacles, wings, rings and tentacle cut.
Does FoodCorp offer IQF giant squid?
Yes. Selected cuts including fillets and rings are available IQF, in addition to block-frozen and 20 kg net carton formats.
Further reading
Import giant squid from Chile
Send the cut, size grade, volume and destination — we'll confirm availability and a price.