October marks both National Nutrition Week and National Marine Week, highlighting the importance of health and environmental sustainability. The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), a leading international not-for-profit organisation, urges South Africans to choose seafood that’s good for you and the ocean too.
Hooked on these health benefits
Choosing seafood is a smart choice for your health. Packed with high-quality protein, essential omega-3 fatty acids, and a wealth of vitamins, seafood supports heart, brain, and overall wellness.
The Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa suggests eating fish at least twice a week, with mackerel, hake, tuna, and salmon being particularly beneficial. To make health-conscious and sustainable choices, look for the Heart Mark logo and MSC blue fish label on seafood products.
Key benefits of wild fish:
- It’s a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle maintenance and growth.
- It’s packed with vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins A, D, E, and B-complex.
- Say hello to heart and brain health due to its omega-3 fatty acids.
Fish you can feel good about
Effective fisheries management is crucial for ocean conservation. South Africa’s hake fishery, the first hake fishery in the world to meet the MSC’s sustainable fishing standard in 2004, has seen significant environmental benefits, including the rebuilding of hake stocks, reduced seabird interactions, and a better understanding of its ecosystem impacts. The fishery industry provides around 27,000 jobs in South Africa. In August, the Albacore pole and line tuna fishery became the second South African fishery to achieved MSC certification.
Over the past three years, MSC-certified fisheries have implemented over 400 improvements in their fishing practices, contributing to the protection of endangered species and vulnerable habitats. Sustainable fishing is crucial for preserving the ocean’s biodiversity and maintaining its ability to provide essential resources.
The MSC’s blue fish label on wild-caught seafood indicates that the products come from sustainably managed sources, helping to preserve ocean health for future generations.
Sustainable seafood recipes
While the MSC blue fish is an easy way for you to identify ocean-friendly, sustainable seafood when you’re at the store, their recipes make it even easier to enjoy your favourite seafood at home. They have curated a collection of healthy, sustainable seafood recipes: Sustainable seafood recipes | Marine Stewardship Council (msc.org)
ALSO SEE: The Marine Stewardship Council launches Ocean Cookbook 2024
