- Waitrose is set to remove fresh, chilled, and frozen mackerel from its shelves by 29 April, with tinned varieties to follow, due to concerns over unsustainable fishing practices.
- The retailer said it is the first major UK supermarket to suspend sales of the popular fish, primarily from Scottish waters, as it no longer meets its responsible sourcing requirements.
- This decision comes as governments have repeatedly failed to implement catch limits recommended by scientists, leading to depleting mackerel stocks in the north-east Atlantic.
- The International Council for Exploration of the Sea (ICES) has warned of a 70 per cent reduction in catches needed for 2026 compared to 2025's recommended levels to ensure long-term viability.
- Conservationists have welcomed Waitrose's move and are urging other supermarkets to follow suit, highlighting the significant decline in mackerel stocks due to overfishing.
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