Avoid imported farmed shrimp due to unsustainable practices like replacing mangroves, causing coastal erosion, pollution, and habitat destruction; choose U.S. shrimp like Key West Pinks, Rock Shrimp, or Gulf Shrimp.
Skip imported catfish, especially from Vietnam, due to lack of inspections and antibiotic use; opt for domestic farm-raised catfish or Asian carp as a sustainable alternative.
These species should be avoided due to high mercury levels, slow reproduction rates, and their crucial role in maintaining ocean ecosystems; consider Pacific halibut or Atlantic mackerel as safer alternatives.
Atlantic cod is still in recovery after stock collapse and remains at risk; choose Pacific cod, which is abundant and sustainable for fish 'n' chips lovers.
Tuna is overfished and has high bycatch rates, especially species like Bluefin and Yellowfin; substitute with tinned sardines or choose Skipjack for a lower mercury option.
Wild caviar from beluga and sturgeon is overfished and affected by habitat pollution; opt for American Lake Sturgeon or sustainably sourced options like California Caviar.
Avoid Chilean Sea Bass due to overfishing and high mercury levels; U.S. hook-and-line caught haddock is a suitable alternative.
Overfished and high in mercury, orange roughy should be avoided despite claims of sustainability; yellow snapper or domestic catfish offer a similar texture.
High in PCBs and mercury and often overharvested, eel is a problematic choice; Atlantic or Pacific squid is a safer alternative.
Imported King Crab, mostly from Russia, lacks sustainable management; ensure crab is from Alaska, where fisheries are well-managed and stocks are healthy.