How sustainable are your sushi choices? Check out our sustainability recommendations of 13 common sushi choices around Hong Kong.

Our recommendations englobe advice from multiple NGOs and environmental concerns such as species population, production method, and the effectiveness of existing fishery management measures.

Be the sushi lover who also loves the ocean – save this post, check our recommendations before your next purchase, and spread the word to friends and family!

【Recommended – choose first】

Scallops & Oysters

As scallops and oysters naturally feed on microorganisms found in seawater, no external feed is needed to raise these species, exerting little to no pressure on natural populations.

Japanese Wild-caught Pacific Saury

Most fishing activities occur in the upper water column, with minimal harm to the seafloor.

Norwegian Wild-caught Atlantic Mackerel

Wild populations of the Atlantic Mackerel are currently at a healthy level. Existing data is sufficient for the sector to identify efficient strategies for sustainable stock management.

New Zealand Farmed Salmon Roe (Ikura)

Listed as “Buy First” in Seafood Watch’s sushi consumer guide.

【Mixed ratings – buy, but choose wisely】

US/Canada Wild-caught Spot Prawns

Existing data shows that spot prawns are not yet overfished. However, additional data on fishing activities is needed to establish a solid conclusion.

Yellowfin Tuna

Populations of Yellowfin tuna from Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam, Atlantic, and Mid-West Pacific are yet to be overexploited. Meanwhile, the population in the Indian Ocean is already overexploited.

Salmon

Most NGOs recommend salmon farmed in Recirculatory Aquaculture Systems (RAS) or in certified farms to be the most sustainable choice. Otherwise, salmon raised in open net pens from Norway, the US, Faroe Islands, Scotland, and Chile are also responsible options, though room for improvement exists.

【Avoid – reduce or stop consumption】

Conger Eel, Eel, Bluefin Tuna

Populations of eels and Bluefin tunas are at critically low levels. Conger eels only spawn once in their life cycle and are not resistant to fishing pressure. Be a responsible sushi lover and avoid consuming these species.

Recommendations in this guide are made based on seafood consumption guides from WWF-Hong Kong, Seafood Watch, and Good Fish Guide from Marine Conservation Society.