Seafood Watch

Overview

Seafood Watch is a sustainable seafood advisory program operated by the Monterey Bay Aquarium that provides science-based recommendations to help consumers, businesses, chefs, and retailers make environmentally responsible seafood purchasing decisions. The program assesses the environmental impacts of wild-caught fisheries and aquaculture operations, evaluating fishing gear, farming methods, and ecosystem effects to produce standardized ratings and recommendations. Seafood Watch has become a global leader in the sustainable seafood movement, influencing similar programs worldwide and partnering with numerous organizations to advance sustainable practices throughout the seafood supply chain.

History

Seafood Watch originated from the Monterey Bay Aquarium's 'Fishing for Solutions' exhibit, which ran from 1997 to 1999 and introduced sustainable seafood options in the aquarium's cafeteria. The official public outreach campaign launched in October 1999, making it one of the first resources for sustainable seafood information alongside the Audubon Society's similar initiative. The program has since expanded to develop an independent database covering 32 species and established the Global Seafood Ratings Alliance in 2016, composed of 13 organizations across multiple continents. Today, Seafood Watch operates comprehensive regional guides, sushi guides, and targeted educational programs for restaurants and retailers.

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Seafood Watch does not manufacture physical products. The program develops science-based assessments and digital resources through research conducted by the Monterey Bay Aquarium's team. Guides and recommendations are distributed through the website, partner organizations, zoos, aquariums, science museums, and nature centers.

Notable Products

• Seafood Watch Recommendation Database - Interactive database with scientific ratings and recommendations for 32 seafood species from abalone to tuna
• Regional Pocket Guides - Portable guides available in English and Spanish for different U.S. regions and sushi options
• Best Choice Restaurant Program - Certification program helping chefs and restaurateurs enhance menu sustainability
• Seafood Profiles - Detailed assessments of marine species status and farming practices

Reputation

Seafood Watch is widely recognized as a credible, science-based authority on sustainable seafood, trusted by consumers, chefs, retailers, and policymakers. The program is respected for its rigorous methodology and independence in evaluating fisheries and aquaculture. It has successfully influenced market practices and inspired similar initiatives globally. Some criticism exists regarding the complexity of ratings and the challenge of making recommendations accessible to average consumers, though the organization continues to refine its communication strategies.