Understanding MSC Certification: A Guide for Fish Businesses
Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification has become the gold standard for sustainable wild-caught seafood. We explain what it means, how to get it, and why it matters for your business.
What is MSC Certification?
The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) is an international non-profit organisation that runs the world's leading certification and ecolabelling programme for wild-caught seafood. The MSC's blue fish label is recognised by consumers in over 100 countries as a mark of sustainable fishing.
The Three Principles of MSC Certification
To achieve MSC certification, a fishery must demonstrate compliance with three core principles: sustainable fish stocks (ensuring that fishing is at a level that can continue indefinitely); minimising environmental impact (including effects on non-target species, habitats, and ecosystems); and effective management (including compliance with laws and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances).
Chain of Custody Certification
For businesses that handle, process, or sell MSC-certified seafood — including processors, wholesalers, and retailers — Chain of Custody (CoC) certification is required to use the MSC label. CoC certification ensures that MSC-certified seafood can be traced back to a certified fishery and that it has not been mixed with non-certified product.
Benefits for Fish Businesses
MSC certification can open doors to major retail and foodservice customers who require certified sustainable sourcing. It provides a credible, third-party verified sustainability credential that can differentiate your business in an increasingly competitive market. Many major UK retailers, including Tesco, Sainsbury's, and Marks & Spencer, have made commitments to source MSC-certified seafood.
How to Get Certified
The MSC certification process involves an assessment by an accredited third-party certification body. For fisheries, the assessment typically takes 12-18 months and involves a detailed evaluation of the fishery against the MSC Standard. For Chain of Custody certification, the process is generally simpler and faster. The MSC website provides detailed guidance on the certification process and a list of accredited certification bodies.