There is no sustainable choice for UK-caught cod, the Marine Conservation Society has warned.
The charity, which has published its latest Good Fish Guide, warned that declining ratings for key UK fish highlighted “growing sustainability concerns for local stocks”.
Among its key warnings, the charity said there were now “no recommended choices for UK-caught cod” due to overfishing, climate change, and ecosystem pressures affecting breeding and juvenile survival.
With no viable British stocks, the society said better-managed fisheries, such as those in Iceland, were more sustainable.
The updated guide also downgraded langoustine, also known as scampi, because fishing levels have been above scientifically recommended amounts in recent years, and populations are declining.
“The challenge isn’t that fish & chips will disappear, but that the species must be sourced from further afield,” said MCS Good Fish Guide manager Kerry Lyne. “As pressure grows on traditional choices like cod and scampi, the Good Fish Guide highlights more sustainable alternatives and shows how consumer choices can support healthier local fish stocks and better-managed fisheries.”
British farmed king prawns have been recommended as an alternative to langoustine, with European hake and some UK haddock stocks touted as alternatives for cod.
Mackerel, which moved off the charity’s recommended list last April, has been red rated, with consumers advised to completely avoid it. This follows Waitrose’s decision to suspend its sourcing of the fish, with other retailers also reviewing their policies.
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“As an island nation, the UK has long relied on its fishing communities and the seas that support them,” said MCS head of sustainable seafood and ocean regeneration Chris Graham. “It’s deeply concerning seeing so many of our iconic fisheries – from cod to mackerel – under increasing pressure.”
The organisation has called for improved management of domestic fisheries to help rebuild stocks and reduce reliance on imports, which currently make up 80% of the seafood the UK consumes.
It also recommended well-managed UK options, such as sea bass from the North Sea, English Channel and Celtic Sea, or plaice from the North Sea, as well as some UK-farmed seafood like blue mussels and freshwater trout, as more sustainable alternatives.
Graham added: “While climate change is playing a role, years of overfishing and poor management have also taken their toll.
“We need strong action from the UK government to support a transition to low-impact fisheries and sustainable seafood farming, helping to restore our seas and secure the future of these vital industries.”
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