Food & Drink

Isle of Man Queenies is a protected designation of origin product with the UK Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs. This accreditation validates the unique nature of Manx queen scallops and the “Isle of Man Queenie” has been rated as the most sustainable wild-caught queen scallop in the British Isles by the Marine Conservation Society.

The rating reflects the overarching commitment to sustainability that guides the Isle of Man Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture. The Department are acknowledged internationally for their commitment to conservation and their work has resulted in increased quotas alongside improved seafood sustainability ratings.

Following a review in 2023, the Isle of Man King Scallop Fishery is now recognised by the highly regarded Marine Conservation Society as among the most sustainably managed king scallop fishery in the British Isles. The improved rating followed numerous management initiatives, including changes to the types of fishing gear permitted, vessel control and scientific surveys, and the launch of the UK’s first long term management plan for inshore scallop fishing. Scallop management practices include minimum landing sizes, a closed season, closed areas, and a 6pm and 6am curfew, which protects vulnerable nocturnal species.

THE FISHERIES DIVISION ENSURES FISHING IN THE ISLAND’S WATERS:

• does not result in the overexploitation of fish stocks,
• takes place in a manner that maintains populations of harvested species and,
• is aligned with their complete eco-system approach to fisheries