Whole Foods Market launches new seafood code of conduct

The new policy strengthens protections for fishers and vessel crew and sets a higher bar for ethical labour practices and supply chain transparency

Whole Foods Market announced its new Seafood Code of Conduct, reinforcing the company’s commitment to safeguard the human rights and welfare of workers throughout its global seafood supply chain. Building on the company’s industry-leading Quality Standards, the new policy strengthens protections for fishers and vessel crew and sets a higher bar for ethical labour practices and supply chain transparency.

Whole Foods Market’s Seafood Code of Conduct draws from globally recognised principles, including the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Work in Fishing Convention. The Code establishes clear standards that all seafood suppliers — from vessel owners to processors and distributors — are expected to follow. These new standards build on the broader Whole Foods Market Supplier Code of Conduct and are part of the company’s long-term mission to promote social responsibility and continuous improvement in its supply chain.

“Leading with purpose has always been at the heart of Whole Foods Market, and our new Seafood Code of Conduct is an extension of that commitment,” said Jason Buechel, chief executive officer of Whole Foods Market. “This isn’t just a one-time announcement — it’s an ongoing effort to raise the industry standard for human rights, responsible sourcing, and supply chain transparency. Working together with our industry peers, we can create a fairer, safer, and more ethical seafood industry for everyone.”