Food Made Good Three Stars for Colmans of South Shields

Ninety years young and Colmans of South Shields, one of Britain’s oldest and best loved fish and chip shops, has proved that it’s more than up to the task of moving with the times, receiving the highest possible recognition for its sustainability.

The North East chippy is celebrating its landmark year in style, with the award of a Three Star Food Made Good rating from the Sustainable Restaurant Association (SRA). Customers at the family-run restaurant can enjoy perennial favourites like cod and chips without having to worry about depleting fish stocks or the restaurant’s impact on the environment.

Owner Richard Ord said: "We’ve been serving fish and chips for nine decades at Colmans, and to ensure that our customers’ grandchildren and their children continue to enjoy the same experience we have to take huge care in what we do. That’s exactly what we do and it’s fantastic to get the highest possible Food Made Good rating recognising what we do.”

The Food Made Good rating assesses all the ingredients that go into making a restaurant ethical and sustainable. Colman’s demonstrated high standards across all aspects of the business – starting with the main ingredient, the fish, which is certified by the Marine Stewardship Council.

For those after a healthy eating experience, the kitchen is always happy to offer smaller portions and grill or steam fish instead of frying it. And an annual gluten-free day is further evidence of Colman’s commitment to match its customers’ dietary requirements.

The Food Made Good rating also considers what restaurants are doing for the environment and their community. Again, Colman’s scored highly in these areas – using solar panels to provide some of its electricity and ensuring that take away meals are served in disposables that are either biodegradable, compostable or made from recycled materials.

Colmans takes seriously its role in the community and works extensively with local colleges and schools like South Tyneside College, teaching them about food and sustainability. Its community work was recognised recently at the Pride of South Tyneside Awards.

Mark Linehan, Managing Director of the SRA, said: "Whether it’s a Sunday roast, or a Saturday night treat, or fish and chips on a Friday, when people eat out they want to indulge their passion for good food without having to check in their principles at the door. Customers at Colmans can tuck into their fish supper knowing that with a Three Star Food Made Good rating it’s combining all the right ingredients to achieve an exceptional level off sustainability, so they can leave with a good taste in the mouth.”