An example of a barramundi (Lates calcarifer) labelled simply as sea bass, rather than Asian sea bass.
Photo: FEAP.
The Federation of European Aquaculture Producers (FEAP) has drawn attention this week to growing concern in international seafood markets regarding the mislabelling of fish species, particularly sea bass.
The organization representing the European aquaculture industry referred in particular to the use of the generic term "sea bass" for products that are not European sea bass, but seek to benefit from its established reputation and market value.
According to FEAP, recent market observations have revealed that, as can be seen in the image at the top of this article, barramundi (Lates calcarifer), a species of fish caught and farmed in the Indo-Pacific region, is often marketed simply as sea bass in several countries in Asia and the Middle East.
The Federation of European Aquaculture Producers warned that this practice risks misleading consumers and undermining the reputation of European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax), a distinct species that is farmed responsibly and sustainably throughout the Mediterranean Sea.
As the organization pointed out, according to the FAO, when referring to Lates calcarifer products, the terms used should be barramundi, giant seaperch, or Asian sea bass to correctly distinguish them from European sea bass.
"Misleading product descriptions 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," FEAP claimed in its statement.
The Federation insisted that accurate labelling is essential to ensure transparency, maintain consumer confidence, and protect fair competition in international trade. It therefore encouraged competent authorities, retailers, and industry stakeholders worldwide to ensure that seafood products are clearly identified with both their correct common and scientific names.
"Ensuring truthful labelling supports informed consumer choices, protects the integrity of international seafood markets, and helps sustain the positive image of European aquaculture globally," the European Aquaculture Producers emphasized.
The request by the FEAP—which is composed of 24 national fish farming associations from 23 countries, both within and outside the EU, with a combined annual production of over 2.5 million tons of fish—coincides in time with the introduction of a new bill in the U.S. Senate—the 'Let Americans Buy with Explicit Labeling Act'—which requires clearer labelling of seafood products in the United States.
The so-called LABEL Act specifically requires that information about the country of origin and production method appear prominently on packaging or display materials, and that it do so in a font size at least as large as that of the product name. Its promoters thus aim to increase transparency for consumers and support the U.S. fishing industry.