Seafood Selector

Scallops

Recommendations

Eco-Best

Eco-OK

Details About Scallops

scallops

Health Details

These fish have low levels of contaminants

More about seafood and health »

Eco Details

  • Bay scallops are are primarily farmed in China using suspension nets. This method is one of the most sustainable forms of aquaculture, since the scallops can be harvested without damaging bottom habitat.
  • Sea scallops are harvested by dredging the ocean floor. This fishing method can result in considerable bycatch of non-targeted species and damage to bottom habitat.
  • Avoid calico scallops (which are sometimes sold as bay scallops), as they are severely depleted.

More About Scallops

Scallops,are easily distinguished by their size. Bay scallops are small (about the diameter of a dime). Sea scallops are larger (up to 1.5 inches in diameter).

This guide is produced in collaboration with the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Banner image from "Endangered Ocean" © 2007 Marian Osher.