See food, make smart choices 1

A new seafood-labeling scheme went into effect yesterday across the U.S. The regulations require that retailers label fish and shellfish with the country of origin and whether they were raised on a farm or caught in the wild. The labels may be put directly on packaging or on signs in the display cases.

Proponents say the labels satisfy a consumer's basic "right to know" about products before purchasing them. Greens should be pleased because the labels will make it easier for consumers to choose seafood from the safest (read: low mercury and POPs) and most sustainable sources. The Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch resources can help with those delicious decisions as well. Browse their regional lists of seafood broken down into three categories: best choices, good alternatives, and those to avoid. You can also print your own pocket-size guide. Bon appetit!

Related Stories

Advertisement
Advertisement

  1. Benjamin Posted 7:29 am
    29 Mar 2005

    Country of Origin Labeling for SeafoodOne would think this would make it easier to choose sustainable seafood but it doesn't really.  Consumers have to do their homework - some fisheries right here in the USA are problematic for the marine ecosystem.  Check guides from Monterey Bay, Blue Ocean Institute or Environmental Defense or sustainability certification from the MSC (ecolabeled fish).  Don't depend on COOL laws and labels to give you all the information you'll need to make a good seafood choice.

    Permalink

Add a Comment

You are not logged in. Thus, you cannot post a comment. If you have an account, log in. If you don't have an account, well, by all means go make one! Meet you back here in five.

Hello, Visitor!    Why not register?

Viewed
More
Commented
More
Advertisement