Consumers Urged to 'Completely Avoid' UK-Caught Cod as Population Plunges
The Marine Conservation Society (MCS) has issued a stark warning urging consumers to completely avoid buying UK-caught cod due to a dangerous decline in fish populations. Despite previous zero-catch recommendations from the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES), overfishing and changing sea temperatures have pushed stocks to critical levels. Consequently, the MCS downgraded all UK-caught cod to its worst rating in its Good Fish Guide, recommending alternatives like European hake, Icelandic cod, and North Sea haddock. While the UK government announced a 44% cut in cod fishing quotas for 2026 following negotiations with the EU and Norway, experts argue this measure is insufficient without stronger action on low-impact fishing practices. The situation mirrors recent concerns over mackerel stocks, highlighting broader issues with sustainable seafood management in the region.
Wire timeline
Consumers Urged to 'Completely Avoid' UK-Caught Cod as Population Plunges
The Marine Conservation Society (MCS) has issued a stark warning urging consumers to completely avoid buying UK-caught cod due to a dangerous decline in fish populations. Despite previous zero-catch recommendations from the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES), overfishing and changing sea temperatures have pushed stocks to critical levels. Consequently, the MCS downgraded all UK-caught cod to its worst rating in its Good Fish Guide, recommending alternatives like European hake, Icelandic cod, and North Sea haddock. While the UK government announced a 44% cut in cod fishing quotas for 2026 following negotiations with the EU and Norway, experts argue this measure is insufficient without stronger action on low-impact fishing practices. The situation mirrors recent concerns over mackerel stocks, highlighting broader issues with sustainable seafood management in the region.
The Guardian