Waitrose Suspends Mackerel Sales Amid Overfishing Concerns

Waitrose has become the first UK supermarket to halt the sale of mackerel due to unsustainable fishing practices in the North-east Atlantic. The move, announced on February 26, 2026, reflects growing concerns about the long-term health of mackerel stocks and follows recommendations from scientific bodies urging significant reductions in catch limits. The supermarket will instead promote herring, sardines, and sea bass as more sustainable alternatives.

The State of Mackerel Stocks

The decision to suspend mackerel sales comes after years of warnings from conservation groups and scientists. The Marine Conservation Society (MCS) downgraded mackerel to a four on its five-point Good Fish Guide sustainability scale last year, indicating that stocks are at a breaking point due to overfishing . The International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) recommended in September 2025 that mackerel fishing in the North-east Atlantic be cut by 70% to allow the population to recover . This recommendation equates to a 77% reduction from the estimated 755,143 tonnes expected to be caught in 2025 .

Waitrose’s Response and Timeline

Waitrose will cease sourcing fresh, chilled, and frozen mackerel by April 29, 2026. Tinned mackerel will be removed from shelves once existing stock is depleted . Marija Rompani, Director of Ethics and Sustainability at the John Lewis Partnership (Waitrose’s parent company), stated that the move reinforces the company’s commitment to responsible sourcing and protecting oceans .

Broader Concerns and Government Response

Conservationists have welcomed Waitrose’s decision but emphasize that the responsibility for addressing overfishing lies with governments. Hugo Tagholm, Executive Director of Oceana UK, warned that the current situation risks the collapse of the mackerel population and endangers other wildlife . In December 2025, UK nations agreed to reduce mackerel fishing by 48%, a figure significantly lower than the 70% reduction recommended by ICES . Since 2010, catches have exceeded recommended levels by an average of 39% .

Industry Reaction

While conservation groups praised Waitrose’s move, fishing groups have condemned the decision.

Looking Ahead

Waitrose’s decision highlights the growing pressure on supermarkets to prioritize sustainability in their seafood sourcing. The situation with mackerel serves as a stark warning about the consequences of overfishing and the require for international cooperation to manage fish stocks effectively. The supermarket’s shift towards promoting alternative species like herring and sardines could influence consumer choices and encourage a more diversified and sustainable seafood market.