Scottish salmon industry faces backlash over labeling change excluding ‘farmed’

The decision allows for the alteration of protected name wording on packaging from “Scottish farmed salmon” to simply “Scottish salmon,” a move defended by Salmon Scotland, which asserts that consumers associate the term “Scottish salmon” specifically with farm-raised Atlantic salmon from Scotland.

However, organizations like WildFish and Animal Equality UK are contesting the decision, arguing that the change could obscure the reality of the Scottish farmed salmon industry, which they claim is marred by significant welfare and environmental issues. They assert that deadly lice infestations, disease outbreaks, and the potential threat to wild salmon populations are prevalent in intensive salmon farming operations.

The labeling change, granted under the protected geographical indication (PGI) scheme, has raised concerns about compliance with EU regulations on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs. Critics argue that altering the labeling without adequately addressing underlying welfare and environmental concerns amounts to an attempt to conceal the truth from consumers.

The move has also prompted backlash from chefs, restaurants, and conservationists, with many expressing support for campaigns advocating for the removal of farmed salmon from menus. They argue that the decision undermines efforts to promote transparency and sustainability in food production.

Despite the opposition, Salmon Scotland maintains that the labeling update is a necessary clarification reflecting consumer perceptions of Scottish salmon. However, critics remain steadfast in their belief that the change fails to address the fundamental issues plaguing the industry and risks misleading consumers about the origins and quality of the product.