Mackerel back to being sustainable

The Mackerel Industry Northern Sustainability Alliance (MINSA) has been trying to prove the fish’s sustainability credentials since 2012.

Assessment of the fishery lasted two years while scientists met to discuss the latest stock advance and quotas.

Ian Gatt, coordinator for MINSA said: “This certification involved a truly unprecedented partnership approach and is a strong demonstration of the commitment of northern European pelagic fishermen to sustainable fishing and the responsible long-term management of the fishery.”

“The mackerel stock is in good shape and gaining the MSC ecolabel will confirm to consumers the sustainable nature of the fishery, which in turn will benefit fishermen and seafood processors throughout northern Europe.”

The majority of those certified today have been MSC certified in the past, but all seven MSC mackerel certificates were suspended in 2012.

An increase in fishing was a result of a significant increase in the amount of mackerel caught by countries outside the certified fleets and the breakdown of international agreements aimed at managing the stock.

“We are committed to further improve the management of the fishery and MINSA is involved in other initiatives to ensure these goals are achieved,” said Mr Gatt.

He continued: “MINSA is delighted to have worked with Acoura Marine through the assessment process of our most valuable fish stock. We look forward to continuing our relationship with Acoura through the annual audits of the fishery.”

Sainsbury’s plans to be the first supermarket to have MSC labelled mackerel back in store.

Ally Dingwall, Sainsbury’s aquaculture and fisheries manager concluded: “This is great news for the fishing industry and our customers. As the leading retailer for sustainably sourced fish we’re proud to be the first to have MSC certified mackerel back on shelves.”

“It’s such a versatile fish with great health benefits as it’s packed with Omega-3."