HORECA Trade launches Hoki fish in the UAE market

In recent years, the Hammour has been over-fished seven times more than the normal level that allows natural reproduction of the species. Overfishing of the Hammour beyond sustainable levels has placed the species on the endangered red list, making it crucial to find a substitute to protect this endangered fish.

HORECA Trade has launched the Hoki fish-"Amaltal" brand to the foodservice market in the UAE offering restaurants and fast food chains a more sustainable seafood option. It is also giving them the opportunity to prepare tasty high quality dishes using a sustainable fish, while still being competitive in terms of prices versus Hammour and many other species in the market.

"Restaurants can now make a difference by replacing Hammour, which is unsustainable, with a sustainable one like Hoki on their menus" said Marco Kouch - Seafood Category Manager at HORECA Trade. "By purchasing fish caught or farmed using environment friendly practices, they also support healthy, abundant oceans" he added.

Hoki comes as a great replacement to Hammour, offering a succulent white flesh that is rich in omega-3 acids, making it a good dietary choice. Studies have also suggested that this type of fish, which lives in the middle depth of water, is a conscious choice for consumers who are concerned about the environment and its sustainability.

Hoki fish is snap-frozen in the ocean, aboard highly-sophisticated fishing boats; ensured to lock in the nutrients and freshness of the fish. It comes to the UAE with zero-glaze and is considered the most exportable fish from New Zealand which has been certified by the Marine Stewardship Council and managed by sustainable quota system set by the Government.