Fishing for Canadian seafood at the grocery store? Labels may not tell the whole story
In the midst of a trade war between the United States and China, many Canadians are turning to local seafood options. However, the process of identifying truly made-in-Canada seafood in grocery stores can be a challenging task due to labeling regulations set by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.
The regulations require seafood to be labeled based on where it was processed, rather than where it was caught or farmed. This means that fish from Canadian waters could potentially be labeled as an international product if it was processed outside of Canada. According to Christina Callegari, senior co-ordinator for marine programs at the Ecology Action Centre, the complex supply chain of seafood often involves shipping products overseas for processing before being brought back to Canada for distribution, leading to misleading labels.
Callegari suggests that consumers look for labels that specify “Product Of Canada” rather than “Made In Canada,” as the former indicates that the seafood was both caught and processed within Canada. However, it is important to note that these labels are voluntary, and not all products may adhere to these standards.
As tensions rise between the U.S. and China, tariffs on Canadian goods, including seafood, have been imposed by both countries. This has prompted concerns within the seafood industry, with Canadian exporters bracing for potential impacts on their businesses.
In light of these challenges, Callegari encourages consumers to seek out local fishmongers, markets, or directly from fishers to ensure the origin and processing of their seafood. SeaChoice, a collaboration advocating for sustainability and traceability in the seafood supply chain, has been pushing for improved labeling that includes information on how the product was caught or farmed, the species’ scientific name, and where it was processed.
Callegari points to the European Union as a model for comprehensive labeling regulations, emphasizing the importance of transparency for both consumers and the industry. By knowing the criteria for sustainable seafood, consumers can make informed decisions while supporting local fishermen in the market.
Overall, the call for clearer labeling and increased transparency in the seafood industry is crucial in navigating the complexities of the global market and ensuring that Canadians have access to truly local and sustainable seafood options.
