Sustainable Fish

Many people enjoy eating fish.  As world human populations grow, we put ever increasing stress on the fish in our oceans.  During my recent visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, I learned several important items.  In the U.S. we import 80% of our fish.  Second, there is a website that provides great information about the types and sources of fish that are sustainable versus those who are threatened.  Please visit www.seafoodwatch.org for more information.  The website provides guidance on what types of fish are the Best Choices, Good Alternatives and those to be Avoided.  Third, look for the Marine Stewardship Council blue eco-label in stores and restaurants.  

Here is one example;  Dungeness & Stone Crabs are considered Best Choices.  Good Alternatives are US Crabs and Snow Crabs from Canada.  To Be Avoided are the Red King Crabs from Russia.  Red Snapper from the US is also to be avoided.  It is an interesting list and helped me a great deal in focusing on what I can do to help seafood sustainability.

Source;  Monterey Bay Aquarium, Seafood Watch, National Seafood Guide, Spring 2013

 

Published by kristennelsondvm

Dr. Kristen Nelson grew up on a farm in Watertown, Minn., where she developed a deep love for animals of all kinds. She received a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Minnesota, College of Veterinary Medicine. Kris then completed a small-animal internship at the prestigious Animal Medical Center in New York City. In addition to writing and speaking, she cares for small and exotic animals in Scottsdale, Az. Dr. Nelson is widely quoted in the media. Her credits include Ladies’ Home Journal, USA TODAY, the Los Angeles Times and numerous radio and television interviews. Dr. Nelson has written two books, Coated With Fur: A Vet’s Life and Coated With Fur: A Blind Cat’s Love. Kris and her husband Steve share their home with rescued cats, birds and a dog.