Last updated: 16 December, 2024 @ 14:40
A lobster fisherman from Jersey and Cornish sardines were among those recognised at this year’s Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and Aqua Stewardship Council (ASC) awards.
The awards, held in Plymouth, Devon and sponsored by Seafood Scotland, Plymouth Gin and Plymouth City Council, are a celebration of the ‘commitment to sustainable seafood and responsible aquaculture’ across the whole supply chain from ocean to plate.
Jersey lobster fisherman Ian Syvret, skipper of the vessel The Shilling, part of the 190-strong Normandy and Jersey Lobster Fishery, was named MSC UK Fishing Hero of the Year for his efforts to ensure the commercial success of MSC certified lobsters, while the MSC UK Ocean Leadership award went to the Cornish Sardine Management Association (CSMA).
Sardines were also recognised in another category, with Tesco Finest Cornish Sardines in Tomato Sauce winning the MSC UK Product of the Year – a category decided by a public vote.
‘Major achievements in sustainable seafood’
George Clark, MSC UK and Ireland programme director, said: “It’s fantastic to gather together in Plymouth once again this year, to celebrate the major achievements in sustainable seafood.
“From the fishing sector who land the catch, up through the supply chain to the brands and retailers making commitments to source only from sustainable fisheries and ASC-certified fish farms to provide to their customers, our award winners tonight really are demonstrating excellence in the sector.”
‘Source seafood more sustainably’
Liverpool-based canning business, Princes, won MSC UK Seafood Brand of the Year, while Sainsbury’s was named MSC UK Supermarket of the Year and ASC UK Retailer of the Year – the second year the supermarket has won both top prizes.
Dave Parker, head of fisheries and aquaculture at Sainsbury’s, said: “These awards are a huge credit to the team because we talk about how we can source seafood more sustainably every single day.
“It means what we’re doing is genuinely being noticed and is meaningful.
“When you win something twice it gives you confidence that you are on the right path and makes us even hungrier to win again and we have huge plans for fish.”
The MSC trophies
This awards for this year’s event were handmade by eco homeware company Rawr, using crushed cockle shells from the MSC-certified Thames Cockle fishery and mussel and scallop shells from Shetland’s MSC certified fisheries.