Iceland Foods has been recognized as the number one UK supermarket for sustainable own-brand seafood by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC). According to the MSC UK & Ireland Market Report 2022, Iceland has the highest percentage of its own-brand wild seafood products bearing the blue MSC ecolabel, with 76% of its range being MSC certified. This blog post explores Iceland’s commitment to sustainable seafood and the importance of sustainable fishing practices.
Iceland’s Commitment to Sustainable Seafood
Iceland has a strong commitment to sourcing sustainable seafood, and the company’s partnership with the MSC is a key part of this. The MSC is an independent, international non-profit organization that sets standards for sustainable fishing and seafood traceability. Iceland works closely with the MSC to ensure that its own-brand seafood range meets these standards.
Iceland’s Own-Brand Seafood Range
Iceland‘s own-brand seafood range includes a wide variety of products, from fish fillets to shellfish. The company has made a concerted effort to ensure that a high percentage of its range is MSC certified, with 76% of products carrying the blue ecolabel. This commitment to sustainability is reflected in the range’s packaging, which prominently displays the MSC logo.
Iceland’s Support for Local, Certified Sustainable Fisheries
Iceland has also been praised for its support of local, certified sustainable fisheries in the UK. In 2020-2021, Iceland became the first UK retailer to offer whole frozen MSC Cornish sardines under its own brand. This move not only helps to support sustainable fishing practices but also supports local economies.
Consumer Attitudes Towards Sustainable Seafood
Consumer attitudes towards sustainable seafood are changing, with an increasing number of people looking for eco-friendly options. The bi-annual independent consumer research survey conducted by Globescan for the MSC found that 41% of consumers buy eco-labelled seafood as often as they can. This figure has increased from 35% in 2020, highlighting the growing importance of sustainability in the seafood industry.
Iceland Foods has been recognized by the MSC as the top UK supermarket for sustainable own-brand seafood, with 76% of its range carrying the blue MSC ecolabel. The company’s commitment to sustainable fishing practices and support of local, certified sustainable fisheries is commendable. As consumer attitudes towards sustainability continue to evolve, it is essential that retailers like Iceland continue to lead the way in promoting sustainable seafood options.
