Waitrose has removed mackerel from all its UK stores, becoming the first major supermarket to take such a sustainability stance amid concerns over overfishing. The retailer stopped stocking fresh, chilled, and frozen mackerel from April 29, with tinned mackerel to be phased out once existing stock runs out.
Reasons Behind the Decision
The move follows the failure of governments to reduce mackerel catches to levels recommended by scientists to ensure sustainable fishing and prevent stock collapse. Waitrose sources its mackerel from Scottish waters, and the decision aligns with the Sustainable Seafood Coalition codes of conduct.
Conservationists Applaud the Move
Conservation groups have welcomed Waitrose's action, calling on other supermarkets to follow. The Marine Conservation Charity previously warned about cod levels, urging shoppers to stop buying cod. Overfishing has led to a 75% decline in mackerel stocks in the North-east Atlantic over the past decade, according to the Blue Marine Foundation.
Jake Pickering, head of agriculture, aquaculture and fisheries at Waitrose, stated: "By suspending sourcing of mackerel at Waitrose, we are reinforcing our ethical and sustainable business commitments, acting to tackle overfishing and protect the long-term health of our oceans and this crucial fish."
Alternative Products Introduced
As substitutes, Waitrose is launching a new range of fish products, including hot smoked herring, hot smoked peppered herring, and hot smoked sweetcure seabass, all Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certified. From May, MSC-certified frozen sardines will also be available as an eco-friendly alternative to frozen mackerel, with plans to become the first retailer to sell 100% MSC tinned sardines.
Future of Mackerel at Waitrose
Waitrose will maintain ties with its mackerel suppliers, sourcing new products like herring, seabass, sardines, and trout through existing partnerships. However, there is no set timeframe for resuming mackerel sales. Marija Rompani, director of ethics and sustainability at the John Lewis Partnership, which owns Waitrose, said sustainable food production must balance climate action and nature protection.
Charles Clover, co-founder of Blue Marine Foundation, noted that fishing nations, including the UK, have overfished mackerel, with some countries awarding themselves more quota than justified by science. He hopes Waitrose's action will push the issue to the top of the political agenda, urging other retailers to follow suit.
