Europe to focus on aquaculture quality to win consumer trust

 

 

European leaders noted that fish farming can help meet growing demand for fish products without harming the environment, but to succeed, it has to guarantee quality and also win political support.

 

At a public hearing on Tuesday (Feb 23), MEPs and guest speakers say fish farmers need political determination, clear rules, a level playing field, and a trustworthy labelling system.

 

Europe consumes over five million tonnes of aquaculture products a year, yet its production does not reach even one million tonnes, said Parliament's rapporteur on building a sustainable future for European aquaculture Guido.

 

But he was optimistic about aquaculture's potential, saying Europe can win over reluctant consumers amid an aggressive international market by ensuring high quality products. 

 

Aquaculture suffers from a negative image, with one of the key concerns is its environmental sustainability. Director of the Galician Turbot Producers Association Fernando Otero Lourido argued that fish farms can be fully sustainable, as is the case in Galicia, where one of the world's largest aquaculture sites is located right next to the Lira marine reserve.  

 

Marco Greco of the Italian Association for Organic Agriculture observed there seems to be a proliferation of different marks on labelling. ''Sustainable'' and ''eco-compatible'' production has to be distinguished from ''organic'' products, as in done in agriculture, said Greco.

 

The meeting also noted that inciting celebrity chefs to prepare carp or tilapia could stimulate demand for these fish.

 

Most speakers stressed the need to use existing research and development funding more efficiently, so that research translates into action. 

 

Dr Peter Heffernan (Marine Institute, Galway) suggested that research topics under existing European programmes need to be better targeted. It is also highlighted that much high-quality research is already available, but said it needed to be put to more use.

 

Milana suggested that an "umbrella regulation" would ensure clarity and consistency, and also called for a single, specific, aquaculture fund to support the sector. However, "we are not yet at the point where we can draw up regulations", he stressed.