Tasmania Salmon Crisis: Safer Alternatives for Seafood Lovers

In recent months, concerns surrounding the sustainability and health standards of Tasmania’s salmon industry have come to light. Once celebrated as some of the world’s finest farmed salmon, Tasmania’s salmon farms have faced growing criticism over environmental impacts, overcrowding, disease outbreaks, and the increasing use of antibiotics and chemicals to manage fish health.

These concerns aren't just about the environment — they're also about what ends up on our plates. With reports suggesting that farmed salmon exposed to these conditions may carry higher risks of parasites, toxins, and nutritional imbalance, it's understandable that more and more people are questioning: Is it still safe to eat salmon?

Should We Avoid Salmon Altogether?

Not necessarily. Salmon is still a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins. But how it's farmed — and where it comes from — matters more than ever.
If you still want to enjoy salmon safely, here’s what you can do:

1. Choose Responsibly-Sourced Salmon

Look for salmon that is wild-caught (such as Alaskan wild salmon) or farmed under strict sustainable and clean conditions. Some boutique Tasmanian farms still operate with higher standards, but it’s crucial to do a little research or ask your supplier.

2. Diversify Your Seafood Choices

Instead of relying solely on salmon, consider healthy and delicious alternatives:

Ocean trout — similar rich flavour and texture, often farmed with more care.

Barramundi — leaner, clean, and sustainably farmed in Australia.

Patagonian toothfish (Glacier 51) — luxurious, buttery, and responsibly sourced.

Yellowtail kingfish — firm and flavorful, often sustainably farmed locally.

Mackerel and sardines — small fish, naturally high in omega-3s and less impacted by farming issues.

3. Buy Local and Fresh Where Possible

Supporting smaller, transparent fisheries helps ensure you’re getting seafood that’s fresher, safer, and better for the environment.

4. Eat a Balanced Amount

Even with the best-sourced seafood, moderation is key. Rotate your intake with a variety of seafood to minimize exposure to potential contaminants while still getting all the benefits.

---

A Final Word

At Fins Choice, we’re committed to offering only the highest quality, responsibly sourced seafood — because your health, our oceans, and the future of great food matter.
Whether it's selecting premium barramundi, offering Glacier 51 toothfish, or carefully choosing when and how we offer salmon, our priority is your trust and wellbeing.

Seafood should be a joy — not a worry.
With the right choices, it still can be.