Swiss fish – an emerging niche
We Swiss are eating more and more fish, but the market share of domestically produced fish and crustaceans stands at just 2.4%. That’s not surprising since we lack access to the sea. But Switzerland, too, not only has hobby anglers, but also professional fisherman on a number of its lakes who catch a variety of different fish species such as European perch, whitefish, zander and pike. They often sell their catch to restaurants that prepare fish specialties or directly to the public. In addition, in recent years farmers have begun to raise fish. They, for instance, have converted old barns for this purpose. Some producers have established themselves as breeders of perch, zander or carp. Fish farming is a very challenging undertaking.
Crustacean farming has come under fire internationally due to the extensive use of antibiotics and marine pollution. Today there are pioneer shrimp farms in Switzerland that are concentrating on sustainable regional production.
This isn’t only one kind of whitefish: more than 25 whitefish species live in Switzerland. Around 60% of the fish caught by professional and recreational fishermen in Switzerland are whitefish. This food fish is especially popular with professional fishermen. Many sell it directly.
