Alternative Seafood Innovations Offer Sustainable Solutions for Ocean Conservation

Alternative seafood is emerging as a vital solution to protect marine ecosystems from overfishing, pollution, and climate change. Researchers highlight that nearly 90% of marine fisheries are fully exploited or overfished, impacting both marine life and the 3 billion people who rely on the ocean for food and jobs. Plant-based and cultivated seafood offer a way to meet rising demand without harming the oceans. These alternatives can shift consumer choices away from wild-caught fish and farmed seafood, reducing environmental stress. Plant-based and cultivated seafood, especially when produced with renewable energy, could be a more climate-resilient option. Companies worldwide are innovating in the alternative seafood sector. Aqua Cultured Foods in Chicago raised $5.5 million to expand production of fungi-based seafood, including scallops, shrimp, and tuna. Konscious Foods in Canada received $5 million to increase production of plant-based sushi meals. BettaF!sh in Austria partnered with BILLA AG to launch the TU-NAH sandwich, bringing plant-based seafood to more consumers across Europe.