Farewell fishy friend
- By Hannah Mahony -
- Jan 24, 2013
So now that mackerel is no longer on the sustainable supper list – which dish of fish can you fill your plate with?
This week the Marine Conservation Society downgraded their rating of mackerel, the oily fish packed with Omega 3- now rated as a fish to only eat on occasion.
According to the MCS, both herring and sardine are good alternatives to mackerel and sit in good stead on the Fish to Eat List.
“If people want to continue eating mackerel they should ensure they buy it from as sustainable a source as possible. That means fish caught locally using traditional methods - including handlines, ringnets and drift nets - or from suppliers who are signatories to the principles of the Mackerel Industry Northern Sustainability Alliance,” said MCS Fisheries Officer, Bernadette Clarke.
Where have the supplies gone?
“The stock has moved into Icelandic and Faroese waters, probably following their prey of small fish, crustaceans and squid. As a result both countries have begun to fish more mackerel than was previously agreed. The total catch is now far in excess of what has been scientifically recommended and previously agreed upon by all participating countries. Negotiations to introduce new catch allowances have so far failed to reach agreement”, Commented Bernadette.
Still a bit lost what to buy when it comes to sustainable seafood? You can head over the FishOnline and download the latest Pocket Good Fish Guide can to keep up-to-date advice with the best fish counter tips.
By Hannah Mahony. Social engagement executive, Virgin Group Digital. Tweets @hannahmahony
