Berks seafood sellers talk about sustainable seafood

Buying seafood these days can be a complicated matter. We worry about our health, the environment and the sustainability of this important food source.

While the fishing industry remains a multibillion dollar industry worldwide, certain fish have declined over the past few decades from overfishing and habitat destruction, which translates to fewer jobs, higher consumer prices and the loss of species.

Heather A. Clark, owner of Go Fish in West Reading, said she opened her business four years ago with sustainability in mind.

“I am very concerned about my customers and the state of the oceans,” she said. “For years fish numbers have gone down. I’ve worked hard to understand the issues and find suppliers that deliver superior fish using best practices. I don’t carry certain kinds of seafood because I want to do what’s best, both ecologically and for people who eat and shop here.”

Because of her research, Clark carries Loch Duart salmon, which is raised on a farm in Scotland. While it is an aquaculture operation, these fish are permitted to live out a natural life in netted Scottish waters, where they are free to swim and eat much like wild salmon.

“This preserves the ecology of the area and wild numbers, and results in an amazing product that tastes like wild salmon,” Clark said. “It’s creamy, buttery and melts in your mouth. Because salmon is a top seller and contains healthy omega-3 fats, people can really feel good about eating it.”

Go Fish also depends on the MSC to help insure its seafood sources are reputable. Because Loch Duart salmon comes from Scotland, Clark also works with an organization called Freedom Food, a division of the United Kingdom’s Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals that monitors the farm.