Seafood Sourcing

When you eat fish, do you ever think of where it comes from?

I've had it come up in conversations a lot recently. People sharing their experiences about witnessing a fish be caught and killed and how that made them feel uncomfortable. Or realizing that eating some fish can lead to an accumulation of toxic heavy metals. Asking why when they purchase "wild Canadian salmon" does the packaging say "Made in China"?

All great points. My response? We need to think more critically about our food and where it comes from. Something we've really become out of touch with.

When we buy protein, it comes plastic wrapped on a styrofoam tray. Veggies are cleaned, all earily identical to one another. People forget that steak comes from a cow, and that carrots come from the ground.

As for fish, it is important to think of what fish, what fishing methods, and what origins. Just because something is "wild" sourced, doesn't mean it's the better choice. Fishing for wild fish can still be extremely detrimental to the environment (think bottom trawling for example, a technique that drags the bottom of the ocean with a big net, catching unnecessary bycatch and is destructive to coral). The stock of fish may also be on the verge of extinction, or obtained during less ideal seasons which may cause fish to have significantly lower nutrient density.

Take a moment, become familiar with what fish you're eating. There is a lot to navigate, so one step at a time. Read labels and ask questions. If you aren't sure how to decipher it all, find a reputable market that prides itself on sourcing. Chat with your fish monger or connect with fishermen at your local farmers market where you can become more engaged and educated about the fish you choose to eat.

Dr. Cristina Allen ND