Compass bans 69 vulnerable fish from restaurants

Contract caterer Compass Group has increased its ‘Fish to Avoid’ List in the UK and Ireland from 13 species to 69 based on an advise from Marine Conservation Society (MCS).

These species, including endangered Blue fin tuna, will not be served in any Compass Group UK and Ireland restaurants. MCS had identified species on Compass’ Fish to Avoid list as the “most vulnerable to over-fishing and/or are fished using methods which cause damage to the environment or non-target species” and include four varieties of skate, five tunas and two types of plaice.

The list offers details including the species, the methods of fishing and the geographical locations that are to be avoided. For example organically farmed Atlantic or Marine Stewardship Council-certified Pacific cod is fine to eat but Compass will not use wild Atlantic cod (caught from all areas except Northeast Arctic, Iceland and Western Channel, Bristol Channel and Southeast Ireland and Sole).

Compass created its Sustainable Seafood Guidelines, including its Fish to Avoid list, in October 2008. Blue fin tuna was included in the original list and in June 2009 swordfish was added, both in accordance with the MCS. The new list reflects the most up to date advice on the MCS website.

Neil Pitcairn, Fish and Seafood Buyer for Compass Group UK & Ireland, said, “Compass’ decision to follow the MCS’ guidelines and delist these species is significant. There are many wonderful and delicious fish that can be caught without risk of over-fishing.”

Simon Brockington, the MCS's Head of Conservation congratulated Compass Group UK & Ireland said, “By removing stocks from MCS' 'fish to avoid' list, Compass is helping to reduce demand for over-exploited fish. This is a crucial step in ensuring the long term survival of vulnerable fisheries.”

Ian El-Mokadem, MD, Compass Group UK & Ireland, said, “Compass has a clear commitment to sustainable sourcing, whether this be through providing full traceability of products and suppliers, or supporting British and Fairtrade farmers and growers.”