Hollandse Nieuwe Herring: A Tasty catch Arrives Soon

Get ready for a taste of the sea! The first Hollandse Nieuwe herring of the season, those delectable Omega-3 bombs, are expected to arrive in the Netherlands around June 18th, promising a rich and flavorful experience.

The Journey of the herring

The process begins in the northern waters west of Norway and Denmark, where the herring are caught and prepared. A delicate process of gutting, salting, maturing, and freezing takes place in Scandinavia to ensure the highest quality.

Expert Opinion

“This year there is no doubt about it: the sea is full of food and the pegs are of exceptional quality,” says herring specialist Guido van der Maaden, responsible for purchasing for fish processor Cornelis Vrolijk from IJmuiden.

van der Maaden,assessing the catch and processing from Kalvåg,Norway,notes the exceptional quality. “We now even have fat percentages above 20 percent! That is exceptionally good, compared to previous years.”

auction and Availability

The first barrel of herring will be auctioned on June 17th in Scheveningen. The following day, these tasty treats will be available at fishmongers throughout the Netherlands.

A Promising Season

“I don’t turn around: given the quality that we now see here in Scandinavia, it will be a fantastic herring year,” concludes Van der Maaden. “The processing is running plenty and slowly the first trucks with buckets herring are now going to the Netherlands.”

Concerns from fishermen

However,scheveningen fishermen have expressed concerns that the upcoming NATO summit might interfere with their ability to sail at the start of the herring season,potentially impacting the supply of fresh fish.

despite these concerns, investments in the fishing industry are on the rise after some dramatic years, signaling renewed confidence in the sector.

The Importance of Fishing

Fishing remains a vital part of Dutch culture and economy. According to the European Market observatory for Fisheries and Aquaculture (EUMOFA), the Netherlands is among the top exporters of fish products in the EU, highlighting the meaning of a successful herring season. (EUMOFA 2024)

Preserving Craftsmanship

Individuals like net maker Gerrit Rog are working to keep the dying craft of net making alive, preserving a piece of history for future generations.

With high-quality herring on the way, it looks like it will be a great year for herring lovers in the Netherlands. Get ready to enjoy this seasonal delicacy!