ENJOY GUILT- FREE FISH WITH YOUR CHIPS

31 July 2007

BRITAIN’S millions of ‘chippie-dinner’ lovers are being encouraged to enjoy ‘sin-free’ cod, thanks to the careful management of the North Atlantic and the Barents Sea.

The crucial fish stocks, which keep 80% of the country’s fish and chip shops going, have been given a sustainable bill of health for next year. The fish are supplied by members of The Frozen at Sea Fillets Association (FASFA), who catch their quotas in carefully managed, well stocked waters far away from the depleted stocks of the North Sea.

The Norwegian, Russian and Faroese Island fish stocks are secure for 2007/2008 and the hi-tech trawlers that fish these waters are the main national suppliers of frozen at sea fillets for Britain’s chip shop establishments.

Tim Cartwright-Taylor, chairman of FASFA, says: “Enjoying a beautiful cod dinner isn’t an environmental sin if your local chip shop is supplied by FASFA members. More than 80% of UK fish and chip shops serve sustainable fish, supplied by our responsible member fishing vessels. And, if you want to be doubly sure you’re doing your bit for the environment and sustainable fishing, simply ask you local chip shop proprietor where his or her cod comes from.”

FASFA supports the advice of the scientists to ensure the long term future of fish stocks. FASFA members act responsibly and consider scientific advice when agreeing quotas. Indeed, the Icelandic minister of fisheries, Einar K Gudfinnsson, recently announced a reduction in cod fishing for next year in Icelandic waters following a recommendation by the Marine Research Institute.

Tim says: “Because we take onboard the advice of the scientific community, our members are able to continue to supply the great majority of the country’s chip shops with the freshest, tastiest and most consistent fillets available. While the Icelandic waters are given a chance to replenish, the North Atlantic and the Barents Sea continue to supply the nation with its favourite fish.”