Representing & Supporting Shetland’s Fishermen

Shetland king scallops regain MSC accreditation
June 22nd 2018

Shetland Shellfish Management Organisation (SSMO) has welcomed Wednesday’s ruling that the judging process for the renewal of Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) status for Shetland king scallops had been carried out correctly.

The organisation’s inshore co-ordinator Carole Laignel said: “Firstly, we are naturally pleased that the sustainable nature of this fishery has been recognised by the award of MSC status for the second time.

"We have worked extremely hard, supported by scientists from the NAFC Marine Centre, to ensure that the supply of high-quality scallops for which Shetland is renowned can continue for generations to come.

"This is a unique, well-regulated and well-managed fishery which has a minimal impact on the marine environment around these islands that we all treasure.

"Consumers can, therefore, continue to purchase Shetland scallops secure in the knowledge they are harvested in a responsible and sustainable manner.”

The Shetland king scallop fishery was first granted MSC status in 2012, the first in Europe.