Sustainability

Sustainable Fishing

Sustainable fishing helps threatened fish recover to a healthy population level. This is extremely important as the demand for seafood grows around the world. Food Lion partners with the Gulf of Maine Research Institute to identify opportunities to improve upon the sustainability of seafood products. Improvements include:

• harvesting methods that decrease by-catch
• distribution networks that decrease food miles
• improved handling to maintain the quality of product
• incentives for suppliers utilizing these voluntary measures
• sourcing and promoting local products, particularly when they are in season

Aquaculture

Aquaculture (fish farming) is also a sustainable method for producing seafood. Benefits include:

• economical
• provides a year-round supply
• can be environmentally friendly if done responsibly
• protects wild fish from depletion

Local and Seasonal

Food Lion is committed to providing seafood harvested and processed in our local communities. We are not only supporting the local economy, but also improving the greeness of our distribution network by decreasing food miles. Fewer miles in transport adds up to a smaller carbon footprint and fresher food for you.

Food Lion will source and promote local products whenever possible, particularly when they are in season. It’s not only best to buy seafood when it’s at peak for flavor, but it also helps prevent overfishing and contributes to successful reproduction in wild populations. If you want to go with wild-caught fish, and want them fresh, ask about what’s in season next time you visit the Food Lion Seafood Department.

View the Food Lion Sustainable Seafood Policy