US-based supermarket chain, Hy-Vee Inc., is committing to providing responsibly sourced and traceable seafood for the second year in a row.
The company’s Responsible Sourcing Commitment was implemented last year. Following this, 79% of its fresh and private label frozen seafood is said to meet its goal of being sustainable – a 17% increase from when the supermarket chain made the pledge in January 2014.
Now, it’s aiming to sell 100% responsibly sourced fresh and private label frozen seafood that is rated ‘green’ or ‘yellow’ by the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch programme by the end of 2015.
“We are dedicated to delivering a diverse and high-quality seafood selection to our Midwest customers. To accomplish this, we believe we must also play an integral role in keeping our oceans healthy,” said Nate Stewart, vice president of perishables, Hy-Vee.
Hy-Vee’s Seafood Procurement Policy also includes the Responsible Choice labelling initiative, which tells customers about the company’s efforts to provide sustainable seafood. The policy was developed to help Hy-Vee sell seafood that is not only safe for consumption, but that is also harvested or raised in a manner providing for its long-term viability while minimising damage to the environment and other sea life.
The company has its own US Department of Commerce lot inspector to ensure the quality, safety and integrity of the fresh seafood it buys.
