Sound Seafood: A British tinned fish company mussel-ing in on the tinned fish revolution

Nestled on the shores of Plymouth Sound in Devon, Sound Seafood is a remarkable example of a family-run fishing business combining tradition with a commitment to sustainability and quality. For those who care about where their seafood comes from, this is a company you should know about.

A proud heritage

Sound Seafood is a family-run company, with fishing and processing in their blood dating back five generations. Their base on the coast gives them direct access to the sea, their own fleet of vessels (and relationships with trusted local fishermen) enabling them to source wild British fish with an eye for excellence.

From catch to plate

What makes Sound Seafood stand out is the journey of its product:

• They land fish from the UK’s waters (via their own boats and trusted partner fishermen).
  

• They process it themselves, including traditional smoke-house methods (both hot and cold smoking) right from Devon.
  

• They package and deliver
  
  

British tinned fish offering

In addition to their fresh fish offering which changes with the seasons, Sound Seafood have introduced a new British tinned fish range offering outstanding quality and convenience.

Sound Seafood - Cornish Sardines in Olive Oil

"Tender boneless Cornish sardines are carefully packed in smooth extra virgin olive oil, giving them a delicate richness that complements their natural flavour. Each one is responsibly caught by skipper Tom Pascoe aboard the Charlotte Clare, a small family-named boat in Sound Seafood’s fleet, before being landed fresh into the charming harbour town of Newlyn. Fully MSC-certified, these sardines celebrate both sustainability and outstanding quality.

The catch takes place between late July and mid-March, when the fish are at their very best — naturally rich in oil. This not only gives the sardines a wonderfully soft texture and deep, savoury taste when canned, but also means they’re brimming with healthy omega-3s.

Try them tossed through linguine with fresh parsley, garlic, a splash of white wine, and a squeeze of lemon for a bright, satisfying dish."

Sound Seafood - Scottish Mackerel in Olive Oil

"These tender Scottish mackerel fillets are skinless, boneless, and packed in smooth olive oil to highlight their naturally rich flavour. Caught in the cold waters off Scotland’s coast during the autumn months, they boast exceptional quality and an impressive 2.7g of omega-3 per 100g. Landed by Sound Seafood’s own boats into the fishing port of Peterhead, this is premium fish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

Enjoying the fillets in vibrant salads with beetroot, orange, walnuts, and peppery leaves, or stirred through tomato pasta sauces."

Sustainability & responsible sourcing

One of the core values of Sound Seafood is being “at the forefront of responsible British fishing”. Their model, which emphasises local fleets, trusted fishermen, and minimal intermediaries, helps with traceability — something increasingly important in the seafood world.

Why this matters

• For the consumer: You get access to wild-British fish, processed close to home, with real people behind it.
  

• For the local ecosystem: Supporting companies that fish responsibly helps preserve marine resources and local livelihoods.
  

• For the food world: It’s a reminder that excellence in taste often starts with excellence in sourcing and processing.
  
  

Final thoughts

Fantastic companies like these need to be nurtured and celebrated. Tell your friends, family and colleagues about them. But more importantly support them by trying and buying their products when you can.