Hannaford Supermarkets earlier this month released its new sustainable seafood sourcing policy.
In the policy, posted on its Web site, the Scarborough, Maine-based retailer said it has committed to selling only seafood from fisheries managed by “competent” authorities through management plans that incorporates a science-based approach to sustainability.
All of the retailer’s wild seafood suppliers must demonstrate that their product meets Hannaford’s sustainability requirements.
Farmed seafood produced beyond the Gulf of Maine region must be certified by the Aquaculture Certification Council according to the Global Aquaculture Alliance’s Best Aquaculture Practices.
All seafood harvested in the Gulf of Maine region must be verified by the Gulf of Maine Research Institute (GMRI).
Requirements also include full traceability of all fresh, frozen or value-added seafood sold in the supermarket chain.
Suppliers whose products are unable to meet the sustainability requirements must demonstrate ways in which they are contributing to the improvement of the sustainability of their seafood by March 2011.
Last March, Hannaford announced a partnership with the GMRI to provide a location for pilot efforts to strengthen the economic and ecologic sustainability of New England fisheries. The retailer has also had positive feedback to its increased promotions of local seafood.
Owned by the Delhaize Group, Hannaford operates more than 150 stores in New England and New York.
