Small pelagic fish make up the second most engaged species group in the MSC programme. There were more than 3 million metric tonnes certified in 2024, representing 12% of global small pelagic catch.
These fish play a vital role in our ocean’s ecosystems, serving as a key food source for other marine life. They also provide critical nutrition for human diets, and their mix of protein and Omega-3 fatty acids makes them a valuable source for aquafeed and supplements.
Our Yearbook provides analysis of the global market for these species and outlines the challenges they currently face, such as the impacts of climate change and disagreements over quotas. It highlights some exemplary case studies of MSC certified small pelagic fisheries, and the role of sustainability certification in supporting positive outcomes for people and planet.
These fish play a vital role in our ocean’s ecosystems, serving as a key food source for other marine life. They also provide critical nutrition for human diets, and their mix of protein and Omega-3 fatty acids makes them a valuable source for aquafeed and supplements.
Our Yearbook provides analysis of the global market for these species and outlines the challenges they currently face, such as the impacts of climate change and disagreements over quotas. It highlights some exemplary case studies of MSC certified small pelagic fisheries, and the role of sustainability certification in supporting positive outcomes for people and planet.
UK & Ireland analysis
The report below gives you an accessible overview of small pelagics in your market, with key data, graphs and quotes.“Across species, price points, and product formats, there is strong consumer demand for certified sustainable fish and seafood in the UK and Ireland. While the availability of MSC labelled product options is growing for species like anchovies and herring, there remains substantial room for growth elsewhere, particularly for sardines and mackerel.”
Small Pelagics Yearbook and UK & Ireland analysis
The Yearbook offers authoritative analysis on the global market for sustainable sardines, anchovies, mackerel, and other key species. Packed with sharp infographics, the latest data and case studies, it explores the challenges, innovations, and successes shaping the future of small pelagic fisheries worldwide.
