Britain. An island where fish and chips is the national dish. An island where “When The Boat Comes In” is a traditional folk song. And yet people in this Britain, this island nation, aren’t eating enough fish.
According to a YouGov poll of 2,000 people commissioned by the World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF), 64% of British adults do not eat two portions of fish a week, the minimum amount recommended by the NHS. These two portions should include at least one of oily fish like salmon or mackerel.
The poll found that over-55s ate the most fish, with 45% managing two portions a week, while young families with children aged between five and 11 ate the least, with only 25% eating two portions weekly.
Fish is held in such high regard by health bodies because it is a good source of vitamins, minerals and, in the case of oily fish, omega 3 fatty acids which are good for heart health. Eating more fish also means people reduce their intake of red meat, with white fish a good low-fat alternative.
The WCRF commissioned the poll as part of its new Hooked On Fish campaign, which aims to get people eating more fish because of its health benefits. As part of the campaign you can get 15% off the seafood subscription service Fishbox if you sign up to the WCRF newsletter. Sign up for Fishbox and you can get weekly, fortnightly or monthly deliveries of fresh fish. Much like Shawshank prison.
One you have acquired your fish, you’ll no doubt be on the lookout for recipes. If you’re short on time and/or cookery skills, we’d highly recommend this insanely simple salmon recipe.
If you have aspirations to cook with more culinary flair, meanwhile, learn how to cook your fish like a pro with this pan-roasted salmon recipe.
If you steer clear of fish due to concerns about its sustainability, the Good Fish Guide can be an invaluable resource. Created by the Marine Conservation Society, it gives details about which fish can be eaten sustainably and which should be avoided. The Good Fish Guide website and app are both regularly updated so you can always make a sustainable seafood selection.
