Get Certified:

MFS Recognised Fishmonger

The MFS Recognised Fishmonger accolade is reserved for those with at least two years’ experience as a fishmonger.

MFS Recognised Fishmongers are driven, have clear career aspirations, and take the time to invest in their learning. With their dexterous skills and passion for seafood, they are always on hand to craft the finest fish and shellfish products.

MFS Recognised Fishmongers are knowledgeable about a range of commercial species and understand the processes involved in selecting, purchasing, handling and storing seafood. With their thorough understanding of food hygiene and health and safety procedures, they take responsibility for their work and are conversant with customers about the health benefits and different methods of preparation available.

Register and start your application
 

Prerequisite Standard

As part of the registration process, candidates will need to meet the pre-requisite standards of the MFS Recognised Fishmonger Criteria, which are as follows:

  • Actively employed as a fishmonger
  • Food Safety qualification (level 2)
  • At least 2 years’ seafood industry experience

 

Certification Benefits

  • Recognition in the Fishmongers’ Company ‘Master Fishmonger Standard Register’ and on the Master Fishmonger Standard website
  • MFS Recognised Fishmonger embroidered badge and certificate
  • Access to the MFS member newsletter
  • Invites to fish trade events
  • Opportunities to contribute to the Fish on Friday website
  • Use of the MFS Recognised logo on your social media pages
  • A copy of ‘The Seafood Guide: A comprehensive guide to fish and shellfish available in the UK’ produced by Seafish

 

Application Process

  1. Download and read the Candidate Guide
    Familiarise yourself with the details of the application process and the Criteria for the MFS Recognised Fishmonger tier.
  2. Register and apply
    Obtain a username and password, log in, pay the registration fees and apply for the relevant tier.
  3. Self-Assessment Form and Portfolio
    Use the Candidate Guide to help you complete the online self-assessment form, as well as assemble and upload the supporting documentation required.
  4. Review of your Application
    Upon submission of your documents, the MFS office will review your documents. Successful applications will be assigned an Assessor, who will review your application.
  5. MFS Assessment: Knowledge Test and Practical Observation
    Once your Assessor feels you are ready, a knowledge test and practical observation will be arranged at your place of work or at a training facility near you. You will need to achieve a pass rate of 60% in both the knowledge test and practical observation. If you have already demonstrated that you fulfil the Criteria of an MFS Recognised Fishmonger during the self-assessment form, then you will be allowed to skip the MFS Assessment component.
  6. Review
    Successful candidates will be notified of their certificate and issued with a unique MFS certification number.
Register and start your application Download Candidate Guide

 

MFS Course

Feeling overwhelmed or underprepared for the MFS Assessment?

Why not enrol in the Master Fishmonger Standard Course provided by the Seafood School at the historic Billingsgate Market in London?

The MFS Course can help to prepare you for your Knowledge Test and Practical Observation. We can tailor the course to your needs, covering the following topics:

  • Seafood Quality Assessment
  • HACCP for fishmongers
  • Fisheries and Aquaculture
  • Hand and Knife Preparation Skills
  • Retail Display Skills
  • Nutrition / Cooking

 

Find out more

 

Fees

All candidates must pay the MFS application fees.
MFS Recognised application fees £45

Depending on your level of experience and academic training you may need to take the MFS Assessment. 

MFS Knowledge Test £25

MFS Practical Observation £65

To help you prepare for the MFS Assessment, you can choose to enrol in the MFS Course at the Seafood School at Billingsgate.
MFS Courses, starting at £55

Start your application