Coalition Calls for EU Action Plan on Blue Foods
Date: 3 September – A coalition of prominent organizations within the fisheries and aquaculture sectors, including EBCD, Europêche, EAPO, FEAP, and AIPCE-CEP, has officially initiated a call for an EU Action Plan on Blue Foods. This call was launched at a significant event held at the European Parliament in Brussels, Belgium.
Bringing Attention to Aquatic Products
The launch event was presided over by Carmen Crespo Diaz, Chair of the Committee of Fisheries of the European Parliament. The discussion emphasized the necessity of aquatic products—often marginalized in European food policy discussions—especially in light of current global challenges such as climate change, conflict, and shifts in geopolitics.
Crespo Diaz stated, “An EU Action Plan for Blue Foods is not an option – it is a necessity! Blue foods must be at the core of the EU’s Ocean Pact and its sustainable food strategy.”
Support from Key Stakeholders
Javier Garat, rapporteur for the opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) on the Ocean Pact, remarked that the EESC supports the call for a Blue Food Action Plan as crucial for modernizing fisheries and aquaculture in Europe, thereby enhancing food security and community resilience.
Felix Leinemann from the European Commission (DG MARE) was also present to respond to the coalition’s call, highlighting recent developments pertinent to the initiative.
The Importance of Blue Foods
Blue foods, which encompass both wild-caught and farmed fish and seafood, are recognized for their rich source of essential nutrients including omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. They often have a smaller carbon footprint compared to many terrestrial protein sources, while simultaneously providing millions of jobs across coastal and rural areas, thus intertwining the ocean with Europe’s social fabric.
Current Challenges in Europe’s Aquatic Food Sector
Despite the importance of blue foods, the aquatic food sector in Europe faces several challenges. The FAO reports that Europe is the only continent witnessing a decline in local aquatic production. Furthermore, per capita consumption of wild-caught seafood in the EU has reached its lowest level in a decade, even as most European fish stocks are managed sustainably. This decline coincides with rising obesity and diet-related health issues across the continent.
Advocates Stress the Need for Action
Ilias Grampas of EBCD emphasized, “Our food systems must evolve! Environmental resilience and Europe’s ability to feed its people must go hand in hand—and blue foods are a key part of that equation.”
Tim Hedddema of Europêche asserted that “Fish and seafood are nature’s original superfoods. To ensure sustainable seafood reaches European plates, EU policies must reinforce supply through a competitive fleet.”
Esben Sverdrup-Jensen from EAPO added, “An action plan is essential for our fishermen to continue producing nutritious, sustainable seafood while attracting new generations.”
Szilvia Mihalffy of FEAP expressed that “Europe must not overlook its potential to produce aquatic food. A dedicated EU Action Plan is crucial for food security and sustainability.”
Guus Pastoor from AIPCE-CEP highlighted the importance of responsible fisheries and aquaculture, along with maintaining robust trade relationships with international partners.
The Path Forward
The coalition’s initiative reinforces the call for the European Commission to develop a dedicated Action Plan that positions aquatic foods at the forefront of European food strategies. The momentum is evident, and the collective voice of stakeholders emphasizes urgency; Europe must take action now to prioritize blue foods for a sustainable and secure future.
