Target has eliminated farmed salmon from its fresh, frozen, and smoked seafood products nationwide, including national brands and Target owned Archer Farms and Market Pantry.  Salmon used in Target owned brands will be wild-caught Alaskan salmon.

The retail chain is working with the Monterey Bay Aquarium to ensure that all salmon offerings meet sustainability standards that help preserve abundance, local habitats, and species health.

Target noted the environment as the reason for the switch. Salmon raised on farms often endure overcrowded conditions and inhumane handling. The farms are known to cause damage to the local environment through pollution, chemicals, and parasite infestations. Often farmed fish escape and wreak havoc on the natural habitat and native fish.

“Target strives to be a responsible steward of the environment, while also providing our guests with the highest-quality food choices,” said Greg Duppler, senior vice president of merchandising. “Our guests now have an array of sustainable seafood choices at great prices.”

The decision is applauded by Greenpeace who hopes to see other retailers follow the standards set by Target.