The uncertainty of seafood labeling in China: A case study on Cod,Salmon and Tuna |
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| Institution: | 1. This Fish/EcoTrust Canada, Vancouver, BC, Canada;2. Vancouver Aquarium, Vancouver, BC, Canada;3. University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada;1. European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC);2. University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, South Africa;3. Washington State University of Idaho, Pullman, WA, United States;4. University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada |
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| Abstract: | Exotic marine fish products are increasingly appreciated in China. In this study, 100 samples of Cod, Salmon and Tuna products were collected from supermarkets in Shanghai, Nanjing and Hangzhou. First the information reported on the label were assessed in the light of the Chinese legislation, paying particular attention to the fish names and the geographical origin. Then, a comparative analysis of the official trade denominations adopted by five European countries (Italy, France, Germany, Spain and United Kingdom) for Cod, Salmon and Tuna was performed. Finally, the Chinese names of the species considered in the EU list were verified consulting the available international lists. Overall, 95% of the samples employed just generic names. In particular, 98% of Salmon and 100% of Tuna products were generically labeled while the labeling of Cod products was more diversified, even though 80% reported misleading or fake denominations. The results of this work highlighted the lack of a mandatory legislation on seafood traceability and of an official naming system. In particular, this study propose the introduction of a detailed Chinese naming system based on the Chinese Latin Dictionary for Seafood Names, following the EU approach. In fact, inaccurate labeling can have both economic and health implications for consumers as well as it may distort the true abundance of fish stocks. These drawbacks can be particularly serious considering the pivotal role of China in the global fishery industry. |
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| Keywords: | Seafood labeling Cod Tuna Salmon Traceability China |
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