Definition of Blue Food
Blue food refers to food obtained from water sources such as fish, seafood, and seaweed (algae). In other words, blue foods are the harvests from the seas, rivers, and lakes, including both wild and farmed seafood.
What benefits can we gain from blue foods? According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the Blue Food Initiative is a “win-win solution” with various benefits for both us and the planet:
1. Nutrition
The primary benefit of blue foods lies in their nutritional content. According to the FAO, more than 3.3 billion people obtain at least 20% of their animal protein intake from fish. In some countries, such as coastal regions, fish like sardines provide the most affordable form of protein.
Data shows that the food we obtain from water contains a variety of essential nutrients. For example, tuna is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for heart and brain health, while seaweed is rich in minerals, and tilapia is high in protein, which is beneficial for the human body.
2. Livelihoods
The role of blue foods in creating and supporting livelihoods cannot be overlooked. According to the Marine Stewardship Council, wild fishing alone employs about 38 million people worldwide, not to mention those involved in aquaculture. The economy of many coastal communities and island nations also heavily depends on the fishing industry, such as the community around Lake Toba.
According to data from the Blue Food Assessment (BFA), blue foods are among the most traded commodities globally, providing livelihoods for around 800 million people in total. Additionally, the fishing sector creates job opportunities in related sectors such as processing and marketing, thus contributing significantly to local and regional economies.
3. Environment
Besides nutritional and economic benefits, blue foods also have a positive impact on the environment. Research by the FAO found that wild fishing is far more environmentally friendly compared to land-based animal farming like cattle and poultry farming.
Data also shows that fish production generates lower carbon emissions than most meat production, does not directly use land, and requires little freshwater. By choosing blue foods as part of our diet, we not only support our health but also help maintain aquatic ecosystem balance and reduce our carbon footprint.
Regal Springs Indonesia and the Blue Food Movement
Regal Springs Indonesia is one of the companies actively supporting the Blue Food Movement by implementing responsible and sustainable fishing practices. Regal Springs supports the goals of the Blue Food Movement as defined by the Blue Food Assessment (BFA), an international initiative involving over 100 scientists from more than 25 institutions.
Regal Springs Indonesia adheres to responsible aquaculture guidelines recognized by the Global Seafood Alliance (GSA), which are an essential part of efforts to build a healthy, fair, and sustainable food system.
With support from companies like Regal Springs Indonesia, and joint efforts from the scientific community and international organizations, blue foods can become an integral part of ensuring global food security in the future.
