Boycott Canadian Fish and Seafood Products
The sealers themselves are, for the most part, fishermen. The main part of their income is from the sale (and export) of fish and seafood products and the UK is an important customer for these products. Whereas income from the seal hunt is insignificant to Canada, the UK imports over £50 million of seafood from Canada each year.
It is the connection between commercial fisheries and the seal hunt and the economics of both industries which make a boycott of Canadian seafood products a logical step in ending the annual hunt. And it is British consumers and businesses that purchase Canadian seafood who have the power to convince the Canadian government and individual fishermen to stop the slaughter.
It is our firm opinion that only outside economic pressure can now help the seals and we have joined together with an international coalition of animal welfare groups to orchestrate a boycott of Canadian fish and seafood products. We are therefore asking the public, retailers and importers in the UK not to buy Canadian seafood and fish products as they are produced by the same people who are killing the seals. A similar campaign run by the HSUS in America has had great success with thousands of individuals and hundreds of stores and businesses pledging to avoid Canadian seafood.
By boycotting Canadian fish and seafood products you send an important message back to those directly involved in the slaughter of the seals.
Tips to help you identify Canadian seafood
Shopping
Read the label
Some products are clearly identified as Canadian by the large maple leaf symbol, but make sure you also read the product information. If in doubt ask the manager or member of staff for the country of origin. Also see our Supermarket Guide.
Eating out
Talk to the Waiter
Always ask your waiter where their seafood originates from if not identified on the menu.
Explain why
Whenever you decide not to purchase Canadian seafood, explain that you are doing so in protest at Canada’s seal hunt, and ask the supermarket, shop, market, or restaurant manager or owner to join you.
Let Canada Know
Please tell James Scott Peterson, Canada’s International Trade Minister that you are choosing to boycott Canadian seafood products until the commercial seal hunt is ended for good. Direct your letters and e-mails to:
The Honourable James Scott Peterson, Minister, c/o Canadian High Commission, 1 Grosvenor Square, London, W1K 4AB.
Read the Supermarket Guide: what they say and what not to buy.
