The Federation of European Aquaculture Producers (FEAP) has cautioned against misleading seafood labelling practices after observing that barramundi (Lates calcarifer) is being marketed simply as seabass in several Asian and Middle Eastern markets.
FEAP said, in a recent statement that this practice "risks misleading consumers and undermines the reputation of European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax), a distinct species farmed responsibly and sustainably across the Mediterranean seas."
The organisation noted that some traders appear to be capitalizing on the European seabass’s established reputation and higher market value by using the generic term seabass for products that are not of European origin.
“Accurate labelling is essential to ensure transparency, maintain consumer confidence, and protect fair competition in international trade,” FEAP said. “Misleading product description not only confuse consumers but also dilute the value of high-quality European aquaculture products that comply with stringent environmental, food safety, and traceability standards.”
The federation is calling on authorities, retailers, and industry stakeholders worldwide to ensure that seafood products are properly identified by both their common and scientific names. For Lates calcarifer, FEAP recommends using barramundi, giant seaperch, or Asian seabass, as indicated by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), to clearly distinguish term from European seabass.
“Ensuring truthful labelling support informed consumer choice, protects the integrity of international seafood markets, and help sustain the positive image of European aquaculture globally,” the statement added.
Headquartered in Brussels, FEAP represent 24 national fish farming associations from 23 European countries, both EU and non-EU. Together, its members produce more than 2.5 million tonnes of fish each year, promoting what the federation describes as, “nutritious, safe, delicious, and environmentally sustainable” products.
Related
Latest In-depth
-
Bacteriohages in aquaculture: What should we know?
Phage therapy – a natural alternative to antibiotics – is gaining ground in aquaculture