Sustainable seafood choices just got more complicated as the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) downgrades popular fish like European hake and coley in its latest Good Fish Guide. UK shoppers who previously swapped cod for these alternatives now face new warnings about declining stocks and increased fishing pressure.
Why the Ratings Changed
The MCS uses a traffic-light system to rate seafood based on stock health and environmental impact. On Wednesday, European hake caught in the North Sea, Celtic Seas, or Bay of Biscay was moved from green to amber due to declining stocks. Coley from UK waters (North Sea, West of Scotland, Rockall, and Skagerrak) dropped from amber to red—the worst rating—meaning it's now a "fish to avoid." Of the 10 coley fisheries rated, only two remain green, while eight are amber.
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What This Means for Consumers
Kerry Lyne, Good Fish Guide manager, emphasizes that "status of fish stocks are continuously changing" and a "fish that was a good choice a few years ago is not necessarily a good choice everywhere today." This highlights the need for consumers to stay informed and adapt their choices.
Key Takeaways
- European hake from North Sea, Celtic Seas, and Bay of Biscay is now amber-rated—eat only occasionally.
- Coley from UK waters is red-rated—avoid completely.
- Most UK seafood consumption relies on just five species: cod, haddock, salmon, tuna, and prawns, pressuring wild stocks.
- Cod populations have declined since 2015 due to overfishing.
- Always check the latest Good Fish Guide before buying seafood.
Sustainable Seafood Alternatives
With these changes, what should you buy? The MCS guide recommends green-rated options like farmed mussels, oysters, and scallops, as well as certified sustainable fisheries. Diversifying your seafood choices reduces pressure on overfished stocks.
| Fish | Previous Rating | Current Rating | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| European hake (North Sea, Celtic Seas, Bay of Biscay) | Green | Amber | Eat occasionally |
| Coley (UK waters) | Amber | Red | Avoid |
| Cod (UK-caught) | Red | Red | Avoid |
| Mussels (farmed) | Green | Green | Best choice |
The Bigger Picture: Overfishing Crisis
Overfishing remains the primary cause of declining fish stocks. Climate change also impacts marine ecosystems, altering fish distribution and abundance. The MCS urges consumers and businesses to use the Good Fish Guide to make informed decisions that support healthy oceans.
FAQ
Why is coley now red-rated?
Coley from UK waters has been downgraded to red due to declining stocks and increased fishing pressure, meaning it should be avoided.
What is the Good Fish Guide?
The Good Fish Guide is published by the Marine Conservation Society and rates seafood using a traffic-light system based on stock health and environmental impact.
What are sustainable seafood alternatives?
Green-rated options include farmed mussels, oysters, and scallops, as well as certified sustainable fisheries.
By staying informed and making conscious choices, consumers can help protect marine ecosystems for future generations. Always consult the latest Good Fish Guide before your next seafood purchase.
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