Is salmon sustainable?

What is salmon?

There are seven known species of Pacific salmon found in North American and Asian waters, and one species of Atlantic salmon, which is mainly farmed. Each species has slightly different characteristics but typically salmon has firm, succulent flesh, and is red to orange in colour. This is from a diet rich in shellfish and high oil content. It is highly valued in the human diet due to its nutritional value, providing essential omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein and a variety of vitamins and minerals. 

Check out our sustainable salmon recipes.

How do I know if salmon is sustainable?

Salmon carrying the MSC blue fish tick is certified sustainable. MSC labelled salmon comes from a fishery that has been independently certified to the MSC Fisheries Standard. Companies using the label all along the supply chain have been assessed to ensure products can be traced back to an MSC certified fishery. There are a variety of salmon products carrying the MSC blue fish tick in stores across Australia and New Zealand.

Where can I buy sustainable salmon?

Look for John West's range of canned and fresh salmon and Safcol tinned salmon with the blue fish tick at supermarkets in Australia and New Zealand.

Salmon facts

The term ‘salmon’ derives from the Latin word ‘salmo,’ which is said to have originated from ‘salire’, which means ‘to leap’. This seems fitting considering salmon can jump up to two metres to cross obstacles in rivers. The scientific name for Pacific salmon is ‘Oncorhynchus’, which derives from the Greek words ‘onkos’ (hook) and ‘rynchos’ (nose). This refers to the ‘kype,’ the hooked jaw that develops in males when they compete for females during mating season.

Explore more sustainable fish to eat

Find more sustainable seafood species that are MSC certified in Australia and New Zealand.

Explore the sustainable seafood guide.