Fast Food Abroad Really Is Better: European McDonald’s To Serve Sustainable Fish

The grass is always greener at the other country’s fast food joint, or so it seems: Not only does McDonald’s offer somewhat healthier fare abroad than on American soil; they seem to be more ethically responsible about their menu elsewhere, too. The company has committed to serving sustainable fish — certified by the Marine Stewardship Council — in all 7,000 of their European locations. That’s a lot of fish (although we’re not convinced it makes up for the spectacular number of unsustainable beef patties they throw in their burgers every year), and New York Times is impressed: “It is one of the highest-profile marine eco-labeling deals ever announced, and environmentalists were largely supportive of its goals,” they say.

Some are still critical, however, that the fish are really sustainable; some say the fish served in Europe, like Alaska pollack and New Zealand hoki, aren’t actually sustainable. And of course, the real coup would be if they made the change in their U.S. locations, as well, a move they say they’re considering, given that the filet-o-fish is one of their most popular sustainable menu items here.

Either way, we’re hardly rushing McDonald’s because of their change; wherever it comes from, fried fish isn’t a heart-healthy choice. But we’re not total curmudgeons: At least they’re making an effort. In Europe.