1. Is caught or harvested in accordance with applicable laws and regulations: This means respecting fishing quotas, using legal fishing gear, fishing in designated areas, and respecting closed seasons.
2. Is sustainably sourced: This means fishing or farming practices that don't deplete fish stocks or damage ecosystems.
3. Is properly labeled and tracked: This ensures consumers can be confident about the origin and legality of the seafood they are buying.
4. Is not endangered or protected: This means avoiding species that are listed as threatened or critically endangered, and respecting any special protections that may exist for certain species.
Key sources of information on legal seafood:
* National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA): The NOAA provides information on sustainable seafood, including their Seafood Watch program which rates the sustainability of various seafood species.
* Marine Stewardship Council (MSC): The MSC certifies sustainable fisheries and seafood products. Look for their blue ecolabel on seafood packaging.
* Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC): The ASC certifies responsible aquaculture practices.
* Your local seafood retailers: Many retailers are committed to selling sustainable seafood and can offer information about their sourcing practices.
It's important to note:
* Regional variations: Laws and regulations regarding fishing practices can vary from region to region.
* Consumer awareness: While there are efforts to promote sustainable and legal seafood, it's ultimately the consumer's responsibility to be informed and make responsible choices.
By choosing legal and sustainable seafood, you are contributing to the health of our oceans and ensuring the future of our seafood supply.