More brands and retailers in Europe and the UK are sourcing certified small pelagic fish such as herring, sardines, anchovies and mackerel, according to new information from the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC). The shift is driving growth in products sourced from MSC-certified fisheries.

The MSC says companies are strengthening sustainability policies as demand rises for small pelagic species used for both food and fishmeal markets.

European retailers shift sourcing policies

Several European brands and retailers have recently begun sourcing MSC-certified herring. Swedish market leader Abba has joined companies such as Lidl and IKEA in adopting certified sourcing.

Other firms adjusting their policies include Kladesholmen, ICA and Axfood. In the UK, Princes is sourcing its mackerel products from an MSC-certified fishery.

They join German and Dutch companies such as Followfood, Fish Tales and Hawesta, which have already made long-standing commitments to MSC-certified small pelagic fish.

Certified pelagic catch exceeds three million tonnes

According to the MSC Small Pelagics Yearbook 2026, more than three million tonnes of small pelagic fish were certified worldwide in 2025. That equals about 13% of the global small pelagic catch.

Small pelagic fish play a key role in marine ecosystems. They are a main food source for many marine animals. They are also widely used in human diets and in aquafeed due to their protein and omega-3 content.

Climate pressure and market growth

Global demand for seafood is expected to rise in the coming decade. The UN Food and Agriculture Organisation estimates that total fisheries and aquaculture production could reach about 212 million tonnes by 2034. Around 192 million tonnes are expected for human consumption, while 21 million tonnes will be used for non-food purposes.

Nicolas Guichoux, Chief Program Officer at MSC, said sustainability now plays a key role in seafood purchasing decisions.

“Sustainability has never been so important in the decisions that brands, retailers and consumers make when purchasing seafood, and for small pelagics in particular,” he said.

He added that businesses choosing MSC certification help protect future generations’ seafood supplies.