Earlier this year SUPERVALU announced its commitment to source 100 percent of its top-twenty wild-caught seafood products from sustainable fisheries or those on a clear pathway to sustainability by 2015. These products will come from MSC certified fisheries, in full assessment, or involved in a Fishery Improvement Project with World Wildlife Fund (WWF).
North Coast Seafoods is the sole seafood supplier to Shaws Supermarkets and has been MSC Chain of Custody certified for more than five years.
Kerry Coughlin, MSC regional director, Americas, congratulated Shaws Supermarkets on its leadership and Supervalus commitment to seafood sustainability: In New England, peoples connection to the sea is historic and legendary and its fitting that Shaws Supermarkets, one of New Englands longest-standing grocery retailers, is the first to achieve MSC certification within the SUPERVALU family."
"The MSC welcomes Shaws Supermarkets into the programme and congratulates the grocery retailer for its commitment to seafood sustainability in serving a region that knows the importance of preserving wild seafood and fishing related livelihoods.
Mike Stigers, president of Shaws, said: Shaws and SUPERVALU are unwavering in our commitment to improve seafood sustainability by working with leading organizations like the MSC to support responsible fishing practices. With a history that spans over 150 years, Shaws is intimately aware of the legacy and importance of the fishing industry in the region. We are excited to take this important step toward ensuring the future viability of our fisheries.
Norm Stavis, president of North Coast said: This is a significant milestone for our company and MSC. This represents the culmination of years of working directly with fisherman, government agencies, and responsible fishery managers, to achieve our collective vision for sustainable fisheries. As a third generation seafood company along with MSC, we are committed to the certification of future sustainable fisheries, providing both our valued retail supermarket partners and New England consumers sustainable, safe, local and wholesome seafood for future generations.
The MSC Chain of Custody certification is a comprehensive traceability programme that traces seafood from the fresh case back to a MSC certified fishery.
Shaws: First Company To Gain MSC Certification
US - Shaws Supermarkets, part of the SUPERVALU family of grocery stores, has earned Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) Chain of Custody certification, and will now offer customers MSC certified sustainable seafood in its fresh cases.
