MSC on the Menu at Ramsgate

20 August 2010

Ramsgate fishermen have signed up to join suppliers and restaurateurs at the ‘MSC on the Menu’ event in Ramsgate on 1st September 2010. This defra- funded event is a great opportunity for fishermen, suppliers and restaurateurs to find out about certified sustainable seafood and increase their network of businesses partnering with the MSC. Staff from the MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) will explain the benefits of buying and selling UK- landed MSC certified sustainable seafood in restaurants and would like to invite anyone from Ramsgate’s fishing and restaurant business to join them at the Ship Shape Cafe on Military Road.

Demand for sustainable seafood has never been higher, and more and more fisheries, suppliers and restaurants are demonstrating their commitment to sourcing sustainable seafood products by getting MSC certified.

Reaping the rewards

Paul Joy, chairman of Hastings Fishermen's Protection Society, has been MSC certified since 2005 and described MSC certification as: “...the only way we can prove that we’re a sustainable fishery, and have good fishery practice...once you’ve got that badge of approval, you haven’t just said you are, you’ve proved you are”.

MSC certified fisheries and suppliers are best placed to respond to the growing demand for sustainable seafood within the food sector. For restaurateurs, MSC certification can be used as a valuable marketing tool to raise the profile of establishments by proving to customers that they are committed to sourcing sustainable seafood.

Links in the chain

“Under the MSC Chain of Custody program, all companies in the seafood supply chain must be MSC certified before seafood may be sold under the MSC ecolabel.” adds Hannah Arcaro, MSC UK Food Service Manager, “This provides a great deal of reassurance to buyers and consumers alike by ensuring certified sustainable seafood is traceable throughout the journey from boat to plate”.
MSC on the Menu will bring together the links in the supply chain while providing information about the steps to MSC certification.