The Fuentes Legacy
To understand the excellence of Fuentes Bluefin Tuna, we must go back to its origins - a family legacy shaped by the rhythms of the sea and the rise of sustainable aquaculture. This is the story of Fuentes, the Spanish company that became the undisputed global leader in farmed bluefin tuna.
A Family Affair
Founded more than 50 years ago in Cartagena, Spain, Fuentes began as a small fishing company built on tradition, resilience, and the vision of its patriarch, Ricardo Fuentes. What started as a modest local business gradually grew into a multinational operation - without ever losing its family spirit.
Today, Fuentes remains family-run, now in its fourth generation. Yet its reach is global, supplying premium bluefin tuna to more than 30 countries and collaborating with top chefs and distributors across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Innovation at Scale
The transition from artisanal fishing to responsible aquaculture was intentional. Fuentes pioneered the capture-based aquaculture model: wild bluefin tuna are caught during their natural Mediterranean migration and then transferred to large sea pens, where they are raised on a carefully controlled, natural diet.
This approach ensures year-round availability, consistent quality, and minimal stress to the fish - resulting in flesh that is tender, marbled, and highly prized by chefs worldwide.
It is this aquaculture model, refined over decades, that positioned Fuentes as the world leader in bluefin tuna farming.
From the Mediterranean to the World
Fuentes operates more than 30 marine farms between Spain and Tunisia, strategically placed along tuna migration routes. These farms are supported by state-of-the-art processing plants, freezing facilities, and logistics hubs that enable same-day processing and rapid global distribution — vital for chefs who demand absolute freshness.
As one family member explains: “We don’t just raise tuna. We raise relationships - with nature, with chefs, and with time.”
Partnership with Longino & Cardenal
The collaboration between Fuentes and Longino & Cardenal was born from a shared philosophy: excellence in cuisine begins with excellence in sourcing. Longino, known for its deep network among the world’s top restaurants, became the perfect ambassador for Fuentes’ product.
Through this partnership, Fuentes Bluefin Tuna has reached some of the most prestigious kitchens globally - not only for its unrivaled quality but for the story it carries: one of patience, precision, and purpose.
Beyond the Plate
For Fuentes, sustainability is not a trend but a commitment. The company strictly adheres to international quotas set by ICCAT, invests heavily in marine research, and collaborates with biologists to maintain ecological balance.
Their vision extends far beyond the dining table: creating a model where environmental responsibility and culinary luxury can thrive together. This dedication has made Fuentes a benchmark for sustainable bluefin aquaculture.
A Legacy Still in Motion
The Fuentes story is still being written. As global demand for premium, sustainable proteins grows, the company is expanding into new markets, developing new technologies, and preparing a new generation to carry forward its stewardship of the sea.
In the end, behind every slice of Fuentes Bluefin Tuna lies more than a product. It is the reflection of a family’s legacy, a philosophy of sustainability, and a vision for the future of seafood.