New US seafood bill calls for stricter testing for imports

A bill introduced last week seeks to improve the safety of seafood imports by requiring they meet the same standards as domestic seafood.

The bill expands upon a previous legislation that prevents the admission into the US of all seafood products that do not comply with the requirements of the Federal Food, Cosmetic and Drug Act.

US Senator David Vitter, who introduced the bill, said this legislation will increase standards to help ensure the quality and safety of imported seafood products, while protecting the consumer health and Louisiana's seafood industry.

Imported seafood will be tested for chemicals and antibiotics and require certain handling conditions. The bill also increases penalties on individuals or organisations that intentionally mislabel products and provides for a ban on certain countries or producers who violate the new standards. Imports will also be limited to designated ports of entry.

The bill is currently being reviewed in the Senate.

Louisiana is currently developing a certification programme for the production of safe, quality seafood products for the US.

AJ Fabre, president of the Louisiana Shrimp Association, supports the bill. He said less than 2% of all seafood imports are tested upon entry into the US, and this bill would add the needed food safety protection for American consumers.