The MCS publishes the Pocket Good Fish Guide, which carries lists of 'fish to eat' and 'fish to avoid', handy as a quick reference when out at the supermarket, take-away or restaurant as to what can be bought with a fair conscience.
It also runs a website, www.fishonline.org, which provides consumers with a more detailed look at fish sustainability research. There are extensive species summaries, with information on stocks and the impacts of fisheries on non-target species and the environment.
But, says the MCS, information gleaned from its materials often cannot be applied effectively enough at points of purchase. 'Labelling of seafood sold in the UK is lacking detail, and as such is not fit for purpose,' says MCS Fisheries Officer Sam Wilding. 'This is leading to confusion amongst consumers who really want to make the best sustainable seafood choice.
'It is vital that consumers are given better information to act upon if we are to reduce the tragedy of overfishing. Whilst we wait for fish sellers to help consumers make the right sustainable seafood choice, we advise that if consumers are not confident that their fish is sustainably sourced, they should question their retailer closely for more information.'
The MCS Pocket Good Fish Guide is available free from the organisation, upon receipt of an SAE.
MCS - 01989 566017, www.mcsuk.org |
