[INFORMATIVE] Shark Fin Soup: A Sugar-Coated Situation

Shark Fin Soup: A Sugar-Coated Situation

By: Hiba Khurram

Shark fin soup, which originated in China, is a dish made from shredded shark fins. The practice of obtaining these fins is quite gruesome: the fins are sliced off, and the rest of the shark is discarded back into the ocean, where it dies a slow and painful death. The high demand for shark fins has led to extensive overfishing, causing a significant decline in shark populations worldwide. Species such as reef sharks, hammerheads, blue sharks, mako sharks, and others are captured for this purpose. It is estimated that around 20 million blue sharks are killed annually for their fins, making them one of the most commonly traded species. In some regions, populations of great white sharks, hammerheads, threshers, and other species have decreased by 90% over the past 60 years. Experts warn that these sharks could face extinction by 2048.

Despite the fact that most people are unaware of this issue, approximately 73 million sharks are killed annually for the luxury of shark fin soup. Shark finning is not only cruel but also inherently wasteful, as only a small portion of the shark is used. Even more concerning is that sharks are taken regardless of their age, size, or species. Nearly 100 species of sharks are currently at high risk of global extinction.

This issue affects humans as well. Without sharks, rays and other marine creatures would be left unchecked, consuming many of the same sea creatures that humans rely on, potentially leading to the closure of fisheries. Sharks also contribute to tourism in tropical destinations. By preying on the most prevalent species, they promote biodiversity and maintain the balance of marine food webs. Additionally, sharks play a role in combating climate change.

Furthermore, as top predators, the disappearance of sharks would disrupt entire ocean ecosystems. Although shark fin soup is considered a delicacy, it has no real nutritional value, with its flavour typically coming from chicken or other stock. Additionally, it contains high levels of methyl mercury, which can lead to cardiovascular disease, damage to the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), and impaired brain function. Consequently, consuming shark fin soup can pose serious health risks.

Shark finning is a multi-billion dollar industry driven by high demand, particularly in China, where consuming shark fins is a status symbol. This soup is sold in many restaurants worldwide, with a single bowl costing up to $100. It is believed to offer several health benefits, such as preventing heart disease, increasing energy, and improving cholesterol levels. Historically, in ancient China, the dish was served by emperors and often featured at weddings to impress guests, symbolising luxury.

Countries that practise shark finning include Indonesia, India, Spain, Argentina, Mexico, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, and South Korea. Indonesia, India, and Spain alone account for over 35% of the world’s annual reported shark catch. However, many countries have started implementing bans to protect sharks. Panama, Honduras, South Africa, and El Salvador are among these nations. In the United States, only eleven states have laws prohibiting the sale of shark fins.

It’s crucial to be aware of these cruel practices and find ways for everyone to contribute to the solution. Here are a few actions we can take:
1. Educate ourselves about sharks and their importance to marine ecosystems.

2. Avoid shark products and unnecessary seafood.

3. Donate to organisations working to protect sharks.

4. Reduce, reuse, and recycle to minimise our environmental impact.

5. Spread awareness about the issue.

This problem affects not only sharks but also humans. Therefore, it is our responsibility to take care of them and ensure their survival.

Sources Cited
Shark image: https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fen.wikipedia.org%2Fwiki%2FCaribbean_reef_shark&psig=AOvVaw2RRy9YxCLHojiZuT-Z4uiT&ust=1726667629601000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBQQjRxqFwoTCKCenKiQyogDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAE

Shark fin soup image: https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fen.wikipedia.org%2Fwiki%2FShark_fin_soup&psig=AOvVaw25pKtNQRIEy31jT_Kua3qt&ust=1726668145058000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBQQjRxqFwoTCJjBhq-SyogDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAE

Shark image including people:

https://visitseaquest.com/blog/the-dangers-of-shark-finning/

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Pardede, Dedy Oktavianus. “Shark Fin Soup in Superior Broth Recipe – DENTIST CHEF.” DENTIST CHEF, 10 Oct. 2013, dentistvschef.wordpress.com/tag/shark-fin-soup-in-superior-broth-recipe/#:~:text=In%20shark%20fin%20soup%2C%20the,snappy%2C%20gelatinous%20texture%E2%80%9D.