Seafood: Tips for Smart Seafood Shopping
When it comes to buying seafood, it’s important to be an informed shopper. Here are some tips to help you make smart choices:
- Look for the “best choice” label: Some seafood is certified as sustainable by organizations like the Marine Stewardship Council. Look for their label or others like it when shopping.
- Know your seafood: Some types of seafood are more sustainable than others. Do some research and learn which types are best for the environment.
- Buy local: Look for seafood that is caught or farmed close to home. This reduces the carbon footprint of shipping and ensures that you’re supporting local fishermen.
- Check for freshness: Smell the seafood before you buy it. Fresh seafood should have a mild scent of the ocean, while old seafood smells strongly of fish.
- Check for transparency: Ask your fishmonger where the seafood came from and how it was caught or farmed. If they can’t give you an answer, it might be best to look elsewhere.
- Avoid overfished species: Some types of seafood, such as tuna and salmon, are often overfished. Avoid buying these species and choose a more sustainable alternative.
- Watch out for mercury: Some types of seafood, such as swordfish and king mackerel, can contain high levels of mercury. Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and young children should avoid these types of seafood.
- Consider frozen seafood: Frozen seafood can be just as nutritious as fresh, and it’s often less expensive. Plus, frozen seafood is often flash-frozen right after it’s caught, which helps to preserve its nutrients.