Scottish haddock fishery lands MSC eco-label

The Scottish haddock fishery on Friday was certified as sustainable and well managed under the Marine Stewardship Council program.

The Scottish Fisheries Sustainable Accreditation Group (SFSAG) North Sea haddock fishery includes 192 boats fishing for haddock with a combination of fishing gears in the northern and central areas of the North Sea. Worth an annual EUR 34 million (USD 47.3 million), the fleet catches 27,507 metric tons of haddock, most of which is sold in the European market.

MSC also announced UK supermarket Marks and Spencer has already committed to being the first to stock the certified product. Scottish smoked haddock from the fishery bearing the blue MSC eco-label will be available in M&S stores beginning 3 November.

“The Scottish industry has been involved in a number of initiatives to demonstrate its sustainability and today is a significant milestone, illustrating the progress that has been made in a relatively short period of time,” said Mike Park, SFSAG chair. “Achieving MSC accreditation for North Sea haddock will enable the industry to prove its credentials to the supply chain, through a recognized and independently verified standard, and ensure that the top quality haddock landed by Scottish vessels is available to as many consumers as possible.“

Earlier this week, the South Georgia icefish fishery and Ocean Choice International’s Grand Banks yellowtail flounder fishery became the world’s 95th and 96th fisheries to obtain MSC certification.

All Environment & Sustainability >

Subscribe

Want seafood news sent to your inbox?

You may unsubscribe from our mailing list at any time. Diversified Communications | 121 Free Street, Portland, ME 04101 | +1 207-842-5500
None