March 19, 2026 — The following was released by the Marine Stewardship Council:
Recertification of the Alaska pollock fishery against the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) standard was finalized today, reaffirming the fishery’s status as a responsibly managed and sustainable seafood resource.
The Alaska pollock fishery has maintained MSC certification since 2005 and has now been recertified for another five-year period following a comprehensive, independent assessment.
Matt Tinning, CEO of the At-sea Processors Association (APA), which holds the MSC certificate for the Alaska pollock fishery, issued the following statement:
“We are proud that the Alaska pollock fishery continues to meet the rigorous, science-based standards of the Marine Stewardship Council. This recertification reflects decades of responsible management, strong science, and a shared commitment to continuous improvement across the fleet.”
The MSC certification process includes an in-depth evaluation conducted by an independent, third-party Conformity Assessment Body. The assessment measures fishery performance across key areas including stock health, ecosystem impacts, and effective management systems.
“Credible third-party certification programs can provide seafood buyers and consumers with added confidence that their sourcing decisions are backed by credible, transparent standards,” Tinning added. “That accountability is central to maintaining trust in global seafood markets.”
The Alaska pollock fishery operates under one of the most comprehensive fisheries management systems in the world, with strict catch limits, real-time monitoring, and robust bycatch controls.
As the largest MSC-certified fishery globally, Alaska pollock plays a critical role in supporting coastal communities, providing a stable source of wild-caught protein, and contributing to the U.S. seafood economy.
“Sustainable fisheries are essential to the long-term health of our oceans and the communities that depend on them,” Tinning said. “We remain committed to advancing responsible practices and ensuring Alaska pollock continues to set the standard for sustainable fisheries worldwide.”
Background:
The At-sea Processors Association (APA) represents the Eastern Bering Sea Alaska pollock catcher-processor fleet. APA has served as the MSC certificate holder for the Alaska pollock fishery since 2005. The certification covers pollock harvested in the Eastern Bering Sea and Gulf of Alaska. The full assessment report and certification details are available on request.