World Aquaculture News: Swordfish Banned in the Marketplace

Consumers Urged to Switch to Ethical Alternatives

Sunset of the Swordfish Harpooner, originally uploaded by StarrGazr.

The “Waitrose Supermarket” chain (UK) has announced has announced a ban on swordfish after being unable to find a sustainable source of the controversial species.

According to the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) we are being warned that world stocks of Swordfish are too low to ensure future supply. In addition, the Waitrose market is concerned that the hooks commonly used to fish for swordfish pose a deadly threat to sea turtles, which are already at risk in many parts of the world.

For a fish to be termed “sustainable” in Waitrose it must meet the following criteria:

* Be a species that is not regarded as threatened or endangered
* Be caught from a well managed fishery with scientifically based quota’s
* Be caught using responsible fishing methods
* Be fully traceable from catch to consumer

We share the same ideals: Fish, shrimp and seafood should come from sustainable and well-managed fisheries or from responsibly farmed aquaculture operations.

HOW TO EAT ETHICALLY: Until an ethical source of swordfish is found, it is recommended to replace the fish with “mahi-mahi”, a fully sustainable white fish that breeds and matures quickly, enabling stocks to replenish more easily.

Without a doubt the aquaculture industry is going to be effected by many different complex trends over the coming years, all operating together, sometimes in very unexpected ways and producing changes in the industry that may be very rapid indeed.   The ability of the aquaculture industry to foresee and react to these trends and changes is of vital importance to the future development and success of the sector.

Island Bounty understands the mega trends already in place, and is positioned to become the industry leader.