Sustainable Seafood Buying Checklist
Use this checklist while shopping to make more sustainable seafood choices. Check off items as you review them. Items are organized by priority with high-priority checks marked in red.
Before Shopping
Complete these steps before heading to the store
The Monterey Bay Aquarium’s free app provides up-to-date recommendations based on your location.
Look for sales on MSC-certified frozen fish or canned options like sardines, mackerel.
Reduce plastic waste by bringing your own packaging for fresh fish.
At the Store – Certification Check
Look for these labels on packaging
Blue fish label for wild-caught seafood that meets environmental standards.
Certification for responsibly farmed seafood.
Look for 3-4 stars for best environmental practices.
Ensures fair labor practices and community benefits.
Questions to Ask Your Fishmonger
Look for hook-and-line, trap-caught, or other low-impact methods.
Neither is automatically better – depends on the species and methods.
Fresher fish has better quality and less waste.
Local seafood often has lower carbon footprint from transportation.
Best Low-Impact Species to Look For
Fast-reproducing, low on food chain, high in omega-3s.
Filter-feeders that improve water quality and require no feed.
Efficiently convert feed to protein with minimal environmental impact.
Well-managed fisheries with strict sustainability oversight.
Species to Avoid
Skip these unless certified sustainable
Long-lived species vulnerable to overfishing; high mercury levels.
Often associated with habitat destruction and poor labor practices.
Very slow-growing species vulnerable to overfishing.
Can have issues with pollution, parasites, and antibiotics.
Budget-Friendly Sustainable Options
$1-3 per serving, long shelf life, ready to use.
Often 30-40% cheaper than fresh; look for MSC/ASC certification.
One of the most affordable proteins per gram, highly sustainable.
Ask if there are any trim pieces or irregular cuts at a discount.