National Marine Fisheries Service

10/01/2021 | News release | Distributed by Public on 10/01/2021 08:05

Celebrate National Seafood Month 2021

October is National Seafood Month. Did you know that the United States is recognized as a global leader in sustainable seafood for both wild-caught and farmed species?

That's because U.S. fishermen and fish farmers operate under some of the most robust and transparent environmental standards in the world. NOAA Fisheries works to advance and export sustainable management practices internationally. We establish and maintain a level playing field for our fishermen and fish farmers, and maintain confidence in U.S. seafood products and access to the global marketplace.

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Seafood gumbo. Credit: Jeffreyw (CC BY 2.0)

Aquaculture plays a key role in sustainable seafood as well. Developing a domestic aquaculture industry is critical for the economic and environmental resiliency of our coastal communities and supply of sustainable seafood.

Sustainable seafood relies on strong science, responsive management, and enforced compliance. NOAA's Office of Law Enforcement enforces best stewardship practices over our ocean fisheries. They work with domestic and international partners to ensure a level playing field for those playing by the rules, combating IUU fishing and expanding compliance with ocean stewardship laws.

Visit FishWatch-the nation's seafood database on sustainable seafood-to get up-to-date information on the science, status and management of U.S. seafood. See why eating seafood is good for you, the economy, and our planet below. Follow along with #NationalSeafoodMonth to stay tuned for updates each week with new seafood stories and more!

Seafood is Good For You

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that everyone-from age 6 months and up-eat regular servings of seafood. Studies show that regular seafood consumption has beneficial impacts on blood pressure and reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Get heart healthy with seafood

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Garlic chili oil and smoked oyster pizza. Credit: Abby Rogerson/Washington Sea Grant.

Seafood is Good for the Economy

The U.S. seafood industry is a powerful economic driver. Nationally, it supported 1.2 million jobs and added $69.2 billion to the gross domestic product in 2017. Commercial harvesting, farming, processing, and retail are also major assets for local and regional economies.

Explore the economic importance of seafood

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Woman watching video on phone. Credit: NOAA Fisheries.

Seafood is Good for the Planet

In the United States, sustainable seafood is not only a possibility, it's our priority. Aquaculture can improve food security and nutrition by increasing the amount of seafood available for people to eat. If done correctly, aquaculture increases food production, boosts economic growth in coastal and rural areas, and can help keep waterways clean.

How aquaculture supports a sustainable earth

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Oyster farmers process their crop-harvesting oysters ready for market and maintaining their gear. Credit: NOAA Fisheries

Dig into Seafood Features

Cheer for Seafood at Your Next Tailgate Party

This fall, get ready for the big game with these seafood tailgate ideas.

Get fun fall seafood recipes ideas

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Shrimp skewers are a quick and easy way to feed your tailgate guests. Photo and recipe courtesy of Seafood Nutrition Partnership.