UK supermarkets are failing to stock their shelves with sustainable fish for customers, despite an increase in customer demand for certified products, research has shown.
Sainsbury's stood out as a positive role model for other chains to look to with 163 certified products sold over the last financial year.
Waitrose follows Sainsbury's with 79, a huge difference, whilst Tesco have increased their line from 17 in 2010 to 18.
Meanwhile, Morrison's have reportedly cut their available products from 12 to eight. Asda also slashed theirs from 27 to 21.
Lidl sit at the bottom of the table with just seven sustainable, certified seafood products available.
The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) senior UK manager Toby Middleton said: “We know that consumers expect sustainable seafood choices in their supermarkets but not all supermarkets are making it easy for their customers. UK shoppers expect sustainability built into their purchase, regardless of their price point. Sainsbury’s has already shown that price need not be a barrier to sustainability, with even their Basics fish fingers MSC certified, at 65p a pack. It’s time for the other retailers to step up to the mark."
Cedrec's take
Disappointing news from the majority of UK supermarket chains. Morrison's, to have such a low number, was a surprise. So much of their charm and appeal comes from the fact they promote their in-store fishmongers and other "market" style goods counters. Eight products compared to the 163 of Sainsbury's is something that should be addressed.
Sainsbury's, however, continues to show great investment and interest in the environment. This is not the first time Sainsbury's has shown its commitment to environmentally friendly actions, such as its recycled tray scheme, zero waste to landfill initiative and anaerobic digestion deal with Biffa.
We hope that other stores can follow the example set by Sainsbury's.
