Global Fish Consumption Reaches Record High

We eat more fish than ever before, according to a report published on Monday by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization.

According to the report, the average annual fish consumption around the world is 37.5 pounds, compared to 35.3 pounds in 2004. An estimated 8 percent of the world’s population depends on fisheries and aquaculture for their livelihoods.

The record level of fish consumption around the world has resulted in a decrease in global fish stocks.

“That there has been no improvement in the status of stocks is a matter of great concern,” said Richard Grainger, U.N. fisheries expert in a statement.

“The percentage of over exploitation needs to go down although at least we seem to be reaching a plateau,” he said.

According to the report, 32 percent of the world's fish stocks are over exploited, depleted, or in urgent need of increase.