To commemorate the milestone, the MSC has released Small but Mighty, a new film showcasing the fishermen, processors and industry partners who have helped maintain the fishery’s sustainability credentials.
Featuring contributors from the UK, Denmark, Sweden and the Netherlands, the film highlights the international cooperation underpinning the fishery’s long-term success.
“North Sea herring is a powerful example of what can be achieved when nations, fisheries and supply chain partners work together towards a shared long-term goal,” said George Clark, MSC UK & Ireland programme director.
“At a time when fisheries are facing increasing pressure from climate change and growing global demand for seafood, this kind of international cooperation is essential to protecting healthy oceans and securing sustainable seafood for the future.”
The film’s launch coincides with the start of the 2026 North Sea herring season. Across northern Europe, communities are preparing to celebrate the arrival of the new catch, from the Netherlands’ famous Vlaggetjesdag (Flag Day) festival to traditional smokehouses in the UK producing world-renowned kippers.
“Herring are very small, but mighty in taste and they’re plentiful in the North Sea, so it’s a good, healthy fish to eat,” said Scottish skipper Adam Wiseman, who features in the film.
“The sustainable part for us is important,” he continued. “We are fully focused on protecting what we have. We want there to be fish for the future.”
International cooperation received a further boost in December 2025 when Norway, the European Union and the UK agreed a new long-term management strategy for North Sea herring stocks. The agreement established a joint quota management framework and marked the first long-term management plan specifically for the fishery.
Modern technology, including sophisticated sonar systems, smart nets and rigorous catch monitoring, continues to help vessels maintain healthy stocks while minimising bycatch.
Major retailers including Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, ASDA and Lidl continue to offer MSC-labelled North Sea herring products.
