1. Support Sustainable Fisheries
The United States has some of the largest and most sustainable fisheries in the world—both wild-caught and farmed seafood. Any U.S.-harvested seafood in the marketplace is inherently sustainable based on 10 national standards.
Commercial trawl. Credit: NOAA Fisheries
2. Support Our Fishermen
U.S. fishermen work hard to follow robust regulations and only catch what they are allowed within sustainability limits. When buying seafood from U.S. fishermen, you’re supporting their families and coastal communities as a whole. U.S. fisheries also make a significant contribution to the economy and the broader seafood supply chain. They provide jobs and recreation, and keep our coastal communities vibrant.
Commercial and recreational fishing supported 1.74 million U.S. jobs in 2017.
3. Boost Your Health
Seafood provides a variety of benefits to your diet. It is a healthy source of low-fat protein and high in omega 3s which are good for your heart and brain.
Seared salmon with Mediterranean salsa. Recipe courtesy of Annessa Chumbley. Credit: Seafood Nutrition Partnership.
4. Strengthen Our Seafood Supply
If done responsibly, as it is in the United States, aquaculture is increasingly recognized as one of the most environmentally sustainable ways to produce food and protein. Marine aquaculture is a resource-efficient method of increasing and diversifying U.S. seafood production. It can expand and stabilize U.S. seafood supply in the face of environmental change.
Blue mussels grown on an offshore experimental farm site in Cape Ann, Massachusetts. Credit: NOAA Fisheries/Mark Dixon
5. Contribute to a More Sustainable Planet
Purchasing sustainable seafood helps support larger sustainability goals for the globe. It can help end world hunger, and provide clean water and more economic opportunities.
Fish accounts for 17 percent of the global population’s intake of animal protein. Credit: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.
6. Give Your Taste Buds a Treat
Last but not least, seafood is delicious! This summer, take your taste buds on vacation with seasonal dishes featuring fresh seafood. Try out a new recipe. You can also stock your freezer and use seafood swaps in burgers, tacos, pizzas, pastas, skewers, salads, and more.
Learn more about eating seafood
Find recipes from the Seafood Nutrition Partnership
Chef Rob Ruiz’s pulled opah sandwiches. Credit: Sam Wells
Find more recipes for the U.S. seafood you love. Want to learn more about seafood but don’t know where to start? FishWatch also arms you with the facts about what makes U.S. seafood sustainable—from the ocean or farm to your plate. Get up-to-date information on the status of harvested marine fish and farmed fish, and learn more about U.S. seafood..
