Angel Lane Chippie in Cumbria have earned an MSC sustainable fish certificate which means they can now use the MSC blue fish label on their cod, haddock, and hake, assuring customers that the fish sold has been responsibly caught using sustainable methods. It also means it can be traced back to the fishermen who caught it.
Recent MSC-commissioned research has shown concern for our future, with 83% of seafood diners agreeing that we need to protect seafood for future generations. It also shows that 8 in 10 seafood diners (81%) want sustainability claims independently verified.
Owned by Daniel & David Harding, the Penrith chippie has been named as one of the top 10 in the UK in the 2019 National Fish and Chip Awards.
Dan and his dad Dave Harding have owned the Angel Lane Chippie since December 2007. They have won several awards since taking on the business. According to the deeds for the property, it became a fish and chip shop in June 1928, and is believed to be Penrith’s longest established fish and chip shop.
Having the MSC blue fish label on the menu means Angel Lane chippie's haddock, cod, and hake is traceable back through the supply chain – from certified sustainable boats to the final point of sale in their shop. Angel Lane Chippie jointly applied for the National Federation of Fish Friers Quality Award and MSC certification, reducing cost and administrative burden.
Daniel Harding said: "We decided to become MSC certified as we know the importance of having enough fish today and preserving the quantities and health of fish stocks for the future. We believe that by becoming part of the MSC programme we are doing our bit to help the ocean. We are very pleased to have met the strict criteria and are now providing a 100% traceable and certified product to our customers.”
Loren Hiller, Commercial Officer at MSC, said: "Angel Lane Chippie should be proud for getting MSC blue fish label on their menu and sourcing 100% traceable and sustainable cod, haddock and hake. From the sea to their customers’ plates, they show the true passion for their produce and the food they serve. We wish them luck in the National Fish and Chip Shop Awards!”
The MSC blue fish label makes it easy for all consumers to choose seafood which has been caught by fishermen who care for the environment and are ensuring that there are plenty more fish in the sea for future generations.