Many favorite fish are now threatened by overfishing. In order to continue to enjoy the ocean’s bounty, protect our oceans, and sustain the livelihoods of millions of people, we need to make responsible consumer choices when buying seafood. Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch provides up to date information and a smartphone app to keep track of what seafood to buy and avoid, but here are some surefire ethical options to try:
Wild-caught Pacific Sardines
Fresh sardines can be hard to come by because they don’t transport or freeze well, but these tiny fish are well worth it when you can find them. Butterfly, debone, and grill your sardines or marinate them and serve them ceviche style in olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
Farmed Sturgeon
Sturgeon is a hearty, meaty fish that takes marinades very well, just be careful not to overcook it. Sturgeon is delicious baked in a tomato based sauce, or grilled with lemons and capers.
Farmed Oysters
Oyster farms are some of the most sustainable seafood farming operations, and have a minimal negative impact on the surrounding ocean. In fact, a properly managed oyster farm can positively impact its environment. You can eat oysters raw or smoked, or lightly bread and fry them.
