Sustainability

The mission is simple:  To improve the manner in which we procure product so that future generations have ample resources to sustain their livelihood. Bar Harbor Seafood seeks to balance environmental, economic, and social considerations in every product we source. While keeping our commitment of serving you with quality live, fresh and frozen seafood products, we are working toward a more reliable and creative method of sourcing and handling products that meet your high standards.

Bar Harbor Seafood currently holds an SQF Level 2 certification which is recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative and is administered by the Food Marketing Institute. Safe Quality Food (SQF) certification requires a rigorous system for food safety. Our vendors must go through an extensive qualifying process, laying out their methods of catch, audit information, and strict handling guidelines among other requirements. We have trimmed down our list of vendors to include only those who meet these standards.

While there are many certifying organizations for sustainable seafood, Bar Harbor Seafood defers to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association for guidance with wild and farm-raised species. We are also working towards a collaboration with the Monterey Bay Aquarium as their Seafood Watch program is recognized by many of the leading seafood industry companies. With our SQF certification following GFSI’s model, we are also looking at the Global Seafood Sustainability Initiative (GSSI) as a global benchmark for sustainable guidelines in seafood. As a member of National Fisheries Institute (NFI) and the NFI Better Seafood Board, we aim to uphold industry principles that products are correctly labeled for weights and counts, country of origin and those products adhere to all labeling laws. Additionally, the commitment expands that products be correctly labeled for identity and that the species are not substituted in any manner.

Sustainability is neither an easy concept nor a simple process for both suppliers and consumers. Education is the key in establishing the connection and spreading the word. Consumers can trust in the ethical commitment Bar Harbor Seafood maintains in all seafood products. We will continue to build relationships with suppliers, certifying bodies, government organizations, and NGOs (Non-Governmental Organizations) with an equal mission towards sustainability.