Guide to help source fish from sustainable sources launched

Sourcing fish from sustainable sources should now be easier for independents and small hospitality groups, thanks to the launch new plain English guide.

Not-for-profit organisation the Marine Stewardship Council's (MSC) has published MyMSC to help cut through the bureaucracy surrounding the auditing process, which has left many small business daunted. The guide provides chefs and owners with a simple explanation of where and how to find MSC certified seafood in their local area and what to do next.

Only businesses that have passed the MSC's strict criteria for sustainability can display the blue eco-label on their fish, which also guarantees fish traceability.

MSC has also introduced lower logo licensing fees, which should make using the blue eco label cheaper on menus and other marketing materials.

• Three businesses in Hastings were the first small companies in the area to sign up to the programme and have now gained chain of custody certification allowing them to display the blue label on their menus. They are Pissarro's restaurant, the Place hotel at Camber Sands and Rock-a-Nore Fisheries

For more information about the scheme visit www.msc.org or for information on the Chain of Custody and a copy of the guide go here.

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By Alix Young

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