Scottish salmon to benefit from new 'Label Rouge' rules

The French quality mark 'Label Rouge' for Scottish salmon has been updated so Scottish farmers can increase their sales in France and other European markets.

In more detail, salmon farmers will be able to export larger fish of between six to eight kilograms. Consequently, the fish larger and stronger will spend less time in the marine environment before reaching harvest weight.

Additionally, the use of alternative ingredients including insects and algal oils will be adapted to develop protein-rich feed and promote the circular economy.

Scottish Quality Salmon and Salmon Scotland announced the updates at Seafood Expo Global/Seafood Processing Global which is being celebrated in Barcelona from 23-25 April 2024.

Precisely, Tavish Scott, chief executive of Salmon Scotland, detailed the importance this news will have on the Scottish economy: "The premium on Label Rouge means higher revenues which support the Scottish economy, fund public services, help rural communities thrive, and sustain jobs across the Highlands and islands of Scotland."

In the same line, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands, Mairi Gougeon said: "We are committed to encouraging investment in research, development, and innovation in Scotland’s aquaculture sector and we will continue to work closely with the Scottish salmon industry to further improve export opportunities and see even more consumers enjoying Label Rouge salmon as a result."

Finally, Su Cox, chair of Scottish Quality Salmon, which sets the quality and promotes Label Rouge Scottish Salmon, explained: "Our fish are grown under strict quality control standards and certified by an exacting quality assurance scheme that is recognized worldwide and guaranteed provenance. These practical updates to the Cahier des Charge will safeguard our internationally recognized quality brand."

The 'Label Rouge'

With sales of £272 million in 2023, nearly half of all exports, France is the top importing country for Scottish salmon and one-third of it arrives under the 'Label Rouge' quality mark.

Moreover, Scottish salmon was the first non-French product to be awarded with the label just over 30 years ago. According to Salmon Scotland, the aim is to increase the 'Label Rouge' salmon global export volumes from 12% to 15% by 2026.

"Interest and appreciation for the quality associated with our salmon has grown significantly across European markets such as Germany, Spain, and Italy, as well as across Asia and North America," added Cox.

If you're at the Expo, please drop by to say hello at the WeAreAquaculture booth in Hall 1, B508. On the contrary, if you aren't attending this year, check our live blog from the event to stay tuned!