Common octopus
Octopus vulgaris
Overview
Common octopus caught in British waters and the Bay of Biscay Need Improvement. Although information on UK populations is increasing, there remains knowledge gaps and little control on fishing to protect them. There are also concerns of overfishing in the Bay of Biscay. Octopus may be found at seafood restaurants, fishmongers, and online retailers. They are uncommon at supermarkets but may appear seasonally.
Ratings
Showing 6 results for Common octopus
Best Choice
Best Choice
This seafood has been sustainably caught or responsibly farmed.
OK - Needs Improvement
OK - Needs Improvement
An ok choice, but needs improvement. We recommend seeking alternatives where possible.
Wild-caught
Location: Cantabrian Sea and Atlantic Iberian waters
Management area: All areas
Method: Bottom trawl (otter)
More infoWild-caught
Location: Cantabrian Sea and Atlantic Iberian waters
Management area: All areas
Method: Pot, trap or creel
More infoWild-caught
Location: Cornwall
Management area: All areas
Method: Bottom trawl (beam), Bottom trawl (otter), Pot, trap or creel
More infoWild-caught
Location: UK
Management area: UK EEZ (except Cornwall)
Method: Bottom trawl (beam)
More infoWild-caught
Location: UK
Management area: UK EEZ (except Cornwall)
Method: Bottom trawl (otter)
More infoAvoid
Avoid
We recommend avoiding these options as they have significant environmental concerns.
Wild-caught
Location: Cantabrian Sea and Atlantic Iberian waters
Management area: All areas
Method: Bottom trawl (beam)
More infoUnder review
Under review
These ratings are currently being reviewed.
Sustainable swaps
Common octopus
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