Seafood is one of the most-nutrient rich foods, packed with vitamins. It already provides a fifth of the daily protein needs of over three billion people globally. Latest estimates suggest if all global fisheries were managed sustainably, 16 million tonnes more seafood could be harvested every year.

This additional catch together with the 96 million tonnes of wild seafood catch currently projected for 2030 could prevent iron deficiencies in four million people and vitamin B12 deficiencies in 18 million people. This could help alleviate anaemia, a global public health problem that affects nearly half of young children under five and 40% of pregnant women globally.

Rupert Howes, chief executive of MSC, commented: “We are facing unprecedented pressure on the world’s food production systems, with the global population set to reach more than eight billion by 2030, as well as the potentially catastrophic impacts of climate change.

“Wild fish is already playing a critical role, providing protein for billions and offering a natural, low-carbon form of food production which is hard to beat. If more global fisheries are managed sustainably, we can provide even more of the nutrition needed to feed a growing population. But this requires urgent action, as a third of the world’s fish stocks are now under threat. 

“If we manage to tackle the challenge of overfishing, then we help address food insecurity and prevent ill health. Consumers, fishers and businesses are already supporting this shift. But we need Governments to do more, ensuring the urgent transformation of our food systems globally.”   

Read the MSC’s Blue Foods Briefing