More than 2,500 species or species groups of aquatic animals and plants are consumed around the world.
The Blue Food Assessment was an international joint initiative that set out to:
1) fill important gaps in our understanding of the role blue foods play in global food systems, and
2) inform and drive change in the policies and practices that will shape future food systems.
It brought together over 100 scientists from more than 25 institutions around the world from 2021 to 2023. The Stockholm Resilience Centre at Stockholm University and Stanford University’s Center for Ocean Solutions and Center on Food Security and the Environment were lead science partners and EATwas the lead impact partner.
This interdisciplinary team supported decision-makers in evaluating opportunities, tradeoffs, and solutions to build healthy, equitable, and sustainable food systems. Research generated by the Assessment now serves as a foundation for the Blue Food Futures Program.
The Aquatic Blue Food Coalition originated from the UN Food Systems Summit 2021 as an action group focused on fulfilling the potential of SDG14 (Life Below Water) for global food security, a resilient climate, and thriving biodiversity. The Coalition has brought together over 40 members who have expressed their commitment to blue foods as a priority. It is multi-sectoral, drawing its strength from diverse representatives that include governments, intergovernmental organizations, academic institutions, the private sector, civil society, and industry.
updated 2026 February