On January 1st, 2002, EC Regulation 2065/2001 compelled member states to label fish as “farmed” or “wild”. From 28th March 2003, Statutory Instruments come into force making this regulation the law in England, Wales and Scotland. However, not all fish products are covered and not all salmon sold is covered by the new law. It is therefore important to be aware of the following when assessing whether a supermarket or retail outlet is complying with the law or not:

Places covered by the new laws:

Supermarkets, grocers, fishmongers, market stalls and e-commerce

Places NOT covered by the new laws:

Catering establishments such as restaurants, canteens and fish and chips shops

Products covered by the new laws:

Loose and pre-packaged uncooked fish at retail (live, fresh, chilled, frozen; fillets, flaked, minced fish; dried, smoked, salted and brined)

Products NOT covered by the new laws:

Processed, preserved, treated or cooked fish (includes fish in sauces, breadcrumbs, marinades and even served with butter - unless it comes in a separate sachet). For example, smoked salmon slices and fresh salmon fillets must be labelled as “farmed” or “wild” whereas processed products like salmon sandwiches, poached salmon or salmon lasagne do not have to be labelled.

How must the product be labelled:

According to the Food Standards Agency, the labels must be “clearly legible, indelible and given in a conspicuous place so as to be easily visible”.

Since these laws are new and there are several ‘grey areas’ there may be instances where you are not sure whether the product needs to be labelled or not. If you have any questions please contact us, send in the packaging or a photograph, or fill in the web-form provided.