Sustainable seafood matters to eight in ten consumers, leading to calls for retailers to support sustainable choices

As the Chinese New Year approaches, families in Singapore and Malaysia are busy preparing for the traditional celebrations. This includes serving dishes such as yusheng and whole steamed fish, which are considered essential for a prosperous and auspicious start to the new year. However, as consumers become increasingly aware of the impact of their food choices on the environment, there is a growing demand for sustainable seafood products.

According to new research conducted by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), eight out of ten consumers in Singapore and Malaysia believe that it is important to choose sustainable seafood. This is a significant increase from previous years, indicating a shift towards more environmentally conscious consumption habits. In response to these insights, the MSC is calling on retailers to increase their offer of sustainable seafood products ahead of the Chinese New Year.

The MSC is an international non-profit organization that sets standards for sustainable fishing and seafood traceability. Their blue label, which can be found on seafood products, is a symbol of sustainable and responsibly sourced seafood. The organization works with fisheries, retailers, and consumers to promote sustainable fishing practices and ensure that seafood is sourced from healthy and well-managed fisheries.

The call for retailers to increase their offer of sustainable seafood products is timely, as the Chinese New Year is one of the busiest periods for seafood consumption in Singapore and Malaysia. With the demand for seafood products expected to rise during this festive season, it is crucial for retailers to prioritize sustainable options and support the growing demand from consumers.

The MSC’s research also found that 76% of consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable seafood products. This shows that consumers are not only aware of the importance of sustainable seafood, but they are also willing to take action and make a difference through their purchasing decisions. By offering more sustainable options, retailers can cater to this demand and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Moreover, choosing sustainable seafood is not only beneficial for the environment but also for the local fishing communities. By supporting sustainable fisheries, retailers can help to ensure the livelihoods of these communities and promote fair and ethical practices in the seafood industry.

In recent years, there has been a growing concern over the depletion of global fish stocks due to overfishing and unsustainable practices. This has led to the decline of certain fish species and has had a significant impact on marine ecosystems. By choosing sustainable seafood, consumers and retailers can play a crucial role in protecting our oceans and preserving marine life for future generations.

The MSC’s call for retailers to increase their offer of sustainable seafood products is a step in the right direction towards a more sustainable seafood industry. However, it is not just the responsibility of retailers to promote sustainable choices. As consumers, we also have a role to play in making sustainable seafood a priority. By choosing products with the MSC blue label, we can support sustainable fisheries and make a positive impact on the environment.

In conclusion, as we celebrate the Chinese New Year, let us also make a conscious effort to choose sustainable seafood. With the growing demand for sustainable options, retailers have an opportunity to make a positive impact and support the shift towards more sustainable consumption habits. Let us work together towards a more sustainable future for our oceans, our communities, and our planet.