As the 2024 sardine fishery draws to a close it is time to look ahead and see what is in store for the fleet and the future of Cornish sardines.

One of the key strengths of the fishery, as seen in the Peltic Survey update from Cefas’ Jeroen, is the fact that the overall tonnage caught by the fleet is around 3% of the total stock in Area VII, which last year was assessed at 410,000tons. By comparison, many pelagic fisheries worldwide take up to and over 30% of the stock.

With that kind of stock security the Cornish sardine fleet can continue to operate in the knowledge that it is doing so wth the highest ethical credentials.

What can be done to increase sales here in the UK?

Cornish canned sardines are available from Tescos and artisanal producers all year round.

During the season, which starts in July, fresh sardines are available in most supermarkets throughout the UK. In general, the UK is woeful at seeking out fresh fish when compared to our near neighbours across the channel.

It’s widely acknowledged that fish consumption varies significantly across France, the UK, and Spain, with notable differences in preferences, particularly concerning oily fish like sardines. Here’s a general comparison:

Spain:

• High Consumption:
  • Spain stands out as one of the highest fish-consuming nations in Europe.
  • Seafood is a staple in Spanish cuisine, with a strong tradition of fresh fish consumption.  
• Oily Fish Preference:
  • Oily fish, including sardines, anchovies, and mackerel, are very popular.
  • These fish are frequently grilled, fried, or preserved in various traditional dishes.
• It is very common for people in Spain to eat fish multiple times a week.

France:

• Moderate Consumption:
  • France has a moderate level of fish consumption, with regional variations.
  • Coastal regions naturally have higher consumption rates.
• Variety of Fish:
  • The French enjoy a wide variety of seafood, with a focus on quality and freshness.
  • While oily fish are eaten, there is a large consumption of other types of fish and shellfish.
• There is a large amount of seafood that is exported from the UK, to France and Spain.  

United Kingdom:

• Lower Consumption Compared to Spain:
  • The UK’s fish consumption is generally lower than in Spain.
  • While fish and chips remain a popular dish, overall consumption of fresh fish varies.
• Oily Fish Consumption:
  • Consumption of oily fish like sardines has been increasing due to awareness of their health benefits, but it is not as high as in Spain.
  • Farmed salmon is still a very popular fish in the UK.  

Key Observations:

• Mediterranean Influence: Spain’s high consumption is strongly influenced by its Mediterranean culinary traditions.
• Regional Differences: Within each country, coastal regions tend to have significantly higher fish consumption.
• Health Awareness: Increasing awareness of the health benefits of oily fish is driving consumption in all three countries.

In summary, Spain leads in fish consumption, particularly oily fish, followed by France, with the UK having a comparatively lower consumption rate.

Celebrate the sardine!

Many Cornish restaurants and pubs have promoted sardines on their menus during the summer months and into autumn – they all play a key role in the huge uplift to the value of Cornish seafood as highlighted in the CFPO report, True Value of Seafood. Cornwall.

Last year a celebration of the sardine was held in Newlyn – the award winning harbour-side Argoe restaurant cooked up a range of sardine based dishes – and skippers invited members of the public aboard their boats to see first hand how the fish are caugh

Coming in September!

September will see an even bigger demonstration of the value of the sardine fishery – in both terms of nutrition, sustainability and heritage. Argoe will put on a sardine celebration, skippers will open up their boats and help inform and educate the public as to how they land the highest possible quality of sustainably caught fish meeting MSC strict certification controls. In addition, the 11th Century Old Quay, one of the country’s few intact mediaeval harbours will be hosting the local logger fleet, the traditional fleet of sardine (pilchard) boats with sailing and rigging demonstrations – and a sardine BBQ!

In the meantime, plans are afoot to get sardines out to hundreds of food tech teachers in Secondary schools in England – a fantastic way to spread the love for these nutritious and sustainable fish!