What is certified seafood?

Certification is a voluntary tool used by the seafood industry to recognize aspects of sustainability, including environmental performance and social responsibility. 

The United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) defines certification as “a procedure by which a third party gives written assurance that a product, process, or service is in conformity with certain standards.”

A range of independent organizations have developed their own certification standards. These organizations engage at many levels throughout the seafood supply chain and require them to meet their specific certification standards. 

In some cases, Seafood Watch recommends certified products to businesses and consumers. View a full list of our recommended certified seafood options.