Unverified claims on seafood labels

A recent SeaChoice report found that 7 in 10 seafood products make unverified claims on the label,

Claims like “responsible”, “sustainable” and “humane”. It doesn’t mean they aren’t doing these things, but they certainly aren’t providing proof.

That can be frustrating if you’re trying to make the best choice for your family and the planet.

The best proof we recommend is looking for eco-certifications, in particular Best Aquaculture Practices , Aquaculture Stewardship Council and Marine Stewardship Council.

These programs send auditors to farms and fishing boats to make sure producers are doing right by the environment, fish welfare, worker health and safety, and the community.

They’re reviewing data and records, quizzing staff, taking their own samples, running traceability tests, making sure policies and procedures are followed, talking to neighbours, and much more.

The auditors ensure compliance against over 300 different rules and regulations. And these standards are continuously reviewed and updated to move the benchmark up every time. 

The programs aren’t perfect, but after going through regular audits for BAP the last 4 years at multiple farms, and many talks with the fishers and processors who get audited by MSC, we have a lot of faith in them. They’re the best way to verify what you’re seeing on the label is true.

Plus it never hurts to know your producers, and ask them the tough questions about how they raise their animals!

Next time you see a claim on the seafood label, turn the pack around and look for BAP, ASC and MSC so you know you’re getting the “responsible”, “sustainable” and “humane” seafood you think you’re buying!

Thanks to one of our favourite customers Odette from Saugeen Shores Environmental Alliance – SEA for sharing this report with us!!

Source: SeaChoice Seafood Progress Report, 2022