The quest for more sustainable caviar

Synopsis: Caviar, a delicacy sourced from sturgeon eggs, has evolved from a rare luxury item to a more accessible food, with new serving styles like "caviar bumps" popularized on social media. However, wild sturgeon populations are critically endangered, mainly due to overfishing and environmental threats. To preserve sturgeon species, sustainable aquaculture practices are emerging as key solutions, with U.S. farms using closed-loop systems to reduce environmental impact. Innovative alternatives, such as cultured or "no-kill" caviar, are also being developed, offering ethical options that don't harm fish. As demand grows and fraud remains a concern, experts recommend consumers seek reputable sources and scrutinize labels to ensure they are purchasing authentic, sustainably produced caviar.

Written By: Leilani Marie Labong
Photo Credit: Getty Images/ Fabio Balbi
Published: July 8, 2024