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Common name - Coley, Saithe
Scientific name - Pollachius virens
Average rating
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Visit Fishonline for the full range of options available for this species.
Consumer Information
Coley belongs to the same family as cod and haddock (Gadidae). Sometimes called coal fish, this used to be a favourite of the nation's cats before tinned pet food was developed. Now, however, top chefs and leading supermarkets have changed all that, making it a great alternative to cod. Before cooking the flesh looks a little grey, but once cooked it turns white and looks as good as cod hence a great alternative! Brilliant in fish pies and cakes. It is also eaten salted and smoked.
Summary
Coley from the stock for combined sea areas North Sea, Skagerrak, West of Scotland and Rockall and Iceland are classified as having full reproductive capacity and are being harvested sustainably. The Norwegian fishery for saithe carried out in the Norwegian Sea, ICES Sub-areas I and II, within the Norwegian Exclusive Economic Zone is assessed as an environmentally responsible fishery by the Marine Stewardship Council. Also the Norwegian and German fisheries for North Sea coley are assessed as an environmentally responsible by the Marine Stewardship Council. The Icelandic fishery is currrently under assessment by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) for completion in February 2014. Avoid eating immature saithe below about 50-60 cms and during its breeding time January to March. To help reduce impact of fishing on fish stocks where fishing effort is too high (Faroes) , the marine environment, and species, choose line-caught fish where available. When buying longline-caught coley ask for fish caught using 'seabird-friendly' methods, see Fishing Methods for details.
Alternatives
(Based on method of production, fish type, and consumer rating: only fish rated 3 and below are included.)
Visit Fishonline, the website for the seafood industry, for more detailed information about this species.