During a recent interview, we discussed the appeal of McDonald’s iconic Filet-O-Fish sandwich, which has captured the hearts of even those who aren’t typically fond of fish burgers. The sandwich features a crispy, tender filet of fish, topped with cheese and a savory sauce, making it a simple yet delicious offering. According to Daily Meal, the fish used in this beloved menu item is one of the most abundant catches in Alaska.
What’s particularly interesting is that the fish in the Filet-O-Fish is fresher than many consumers might expect. Just moments before you take a bite of that hot sandwich, the fish was swimming in the waters surrounding Alaska and the Bering Sea. McDonald’s uses wild-caught Alaska Pollock, also known as yellowfin cod, which is sustainably sourced rather than farmed. Stringent industry regulations ensure that this species remains plentiful and that other marine life is not harmed during fishing operations.
Historically, the Filet-O-Fish was conceived with a different type of fish in mind. Initially, the plan was to use halibut, which was later switched to cod. For nearly 50 years, the Filet-O-Fish has been made from cod, but today, customers delight in the sustainable and nutrient-rich Alaska Pollock.
As one of McDonald’s top-selling items—with annual sales reaching 300 million units as of 2023—the sustainability efforts behind the Filet-O-Fish are crucial. In 2013, the sandwich’s packaging featured the blue fish logo of the Marine Stewardship Council, making McDonald’s the only national chain in the United States with this distinction. This certification indicates that every step of the process, from ocean catch to customer delivery, adheres to sustainable fishing practices.
Not many people know that this popular burger was the result of franchise operator Lou Groen’s dedication to creating a meatless product that would appeal to the Catholic community in Cincinnati during Lent. The sandwich was such a hit that it saved Groen’s store and allowed him to open 43 more locations. Although Groen initially believed his halibut burger was far superior to McDonald’s previous Atlantic cod version, the importance of sustainability is undeniable given the staggering annual sales of the Filet-O-Fish.
Alaska Pollock is not only celebrated for its sustainability but also for its mild flavor, tender texture, and nutritional value. It’s rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and is frozen immediately upon capture, ensuring its freshness.
