The Marine Conservation Society has removed UK-caught cod from its sustainable seafood list due to declining stocks, advising buyers to consider sourcing from Iceland. How will this impact the market?
The Marine Conservation Society (MCS) has removed all UK-caught cod from its Good Fish Guide, citing declining stocks due to overfishing and climate change. The MCS now advises consumers and businesses to source cod from Iceland. Scampi has also been downgraded in sustainability ratings.
The MCS's decision reflects broader trends affecting UK fisheries. Overfishing remains a primary concern, with warmer sea temperatures disrupting breeding patterns and reducing the survival rates of juvenile fish. The fisheries minister announced a 44% cut in cod fishing quotas for 2026, indicating significant regulatory changes ahead. These factors compound the challenges faced by UK fish stocks, particularly for species like cod and scampi.
Restaurants and caterers that previously relied on UK cod will now face higher costs as they shift sourcing to Iceland. This change could increase menu prices for consumers. Meanwhile, suppliers of Icelandic seafood may benefit from the shift in demand. The downgrade of scampi could also disrupt local markets, affecting fishermen and processors in the UK.
Monitor the impact of the 44% cut in cod quotas on fishing operations through 2026. Track the response from UK restaurants and caterers as they adjust their menus and sourcing strategies.
Sources:
- https://www.grocerygazette.co.uk/2026/04/09/uk-cod-advised-as-unsustainable-as-stocks-plummet-amid-overfishing-and-climate-change/
- https://foodservicefootprint.com/uk-caught-cod-no-longer-sustainable/
- https://www.countryfile.com/news/uk-fish-stocks-plummet
- https://icelandseafood.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Announcement-Q4-English-25.02.2026-1.pdf
- https://icelandseafood.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Q4-2025-Presentation-1-1.pdf
- http://carbonmandi.com/
- https://www.intrafish.com/sustainability/uk-cod-wiped-from-sustainable-list-buyers-told-to-source-from-iceland/2-1-1971846