Sustainable Seafood Choices: Beyond the Farmed vs. Wild Debate

Previously, I believed that my preference for wild-caught seafood was environmentally conscious. However, after learning about the significant issue of by-catch, I realized this might not be as ecologically pure as I presumed. In fact, wild seafood can also suffer from by-catch problems. This article delves into the issue and presents alternative options for sustainable seafood choices.

The Farmed Salmon Pitfalls

Compared to wild-caught salmon, farmed salmon often come with a host of environmental and health concerns. For instance, farm-fed salmon are regularly given antibiotics to mitigate disease, and their feed is often enriched with synthetic colorants to achieve the desired pink color. Additionally, this proliferation of farmed salmon results in substantial by-catch as it requires a considerable amount of wild fish for feed. It is said that it takes 3 pounds of wild fish to produce just 1 pound of farmed salmon.

Examples of farmed salmon practices include:

Farmed salmon are often given antibiotics to prevent disease which can pose health risks. Their feed is enhanced with artificial colorants to give the fish a more appealing pink color. One pound of farmed salmon can require up to 3 pounds of wild fish for its feed.

Wild Salmon: A Better Choice?

While wild Alaska salmon is generally considered a better choice, it is crucial to consider the by-catch problem. However, there are still ways to enjoy wild-caught seafood without succumbing to the by-catch issue. One sustainable option is line-caught or pound-caught fish.

Line and Pound-Caught Fish: A Sustainable Alternative

Sustainable options such as line and trap (pound) caught fish offer a solution. Commercial fishermen can now form cooperatives and sell fish that are harvested using these methods. Such practices ensure there is no by-catch, meaning the fish caught are the ones intended.

For instance, in my area on the Atlantic coast, there are fishermen who use fish traps or pounds. By purchasing fish that are caught by these methods, consumers can significantly influence the local fish harvest in the same season. This is not only sustainable but also economically beneficial to the fishermen.

Supporting Local Fishermen: A Sustainable Future

My friend's father is one of the last baymen working the East End. Historically, there were thousands of baymen, but now there are only a handful. These baymen are committed to sustainable fishing practices, often releasing unharmed the fish they cannot get a good price for. By processing fish that might not be profitable, they ensure a sustainable and productive fishery.

These fishermen see themselves as ultimate conservationists. If they can sell a species, they will fish for it. For example, blowfish, a local delicacy, and porgy, which are not typically found on restaurant menus, are fished because they can be sold. If they can't sell it, they won't fish it. Their dedication to their craft is remarkable, and their goal is to continue fishing for the next 30 years while sustaining the fishery.

Conclusion: Engage in Sustainable Seafood Choices

To support sustainable seafood practices, consumers can:

Look for and buy line or pound-caught fish from local markets and restaurants. Ask local fishermen and fishmongers about their sustainable practices. Purchase from wholesalers that pay better prices for sustainably caught fish.

By taking these steps, consumers can make a significant impact on the sustainability of our oceans and the livelihoods of fishermen.