03 June 2024 , 07:31
936
0
Environmental campaigners have slammed supermarkets for labelling scampi as "responsibly sourced," prompting a formal complaint to the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA).
Open Seas - who made the complaint - argues that such claims mask "many environmental problems" associated with the seafood. Last year, Open Seas launched a campaign to address the "extensive damage" to marine ecosystems and seabeds caused by trawling methods used in harvesting langoustines for scampi.
The organisation says that the term "responsibly sourced" is misleading and violates CMA guidelines, which demand marketing claims are "truthful and accurate" as well as "clear and unambiguous". Nick Underdown, head of campaigns at Open Seas, said: "Catching large volumes of young fish against scientific advice is not responsible. Trawling over fragile marine habitats is not responsible.
"An increased risk of forced labour and human trafficking within the scampi supply chain is not responsible. Businesses failing to address these problems is not responsible. The way scampi is produced has all the hallmarks of an irresponsible fishery."
"We've raised these concerns with supermarkets, but they continue to sell scampi as 'responsibly sourced'. Language is important and the term 'responsibly sourced' is used repeatedly on packaging to give the impression of responsibility, whilst concealing the many environmental problems and human rights issues associated with scampi."
Morrisons is slashing over 130 prices on its saver-products from today
"We look forward to the consideration of our concerns by the CMA. Consumers should not be misled by products being marketed in this way."
A representative for the British Retail Consortium responded: "Retailers are committed to sourcing scampi responsibly, working closely with stakeholders and suppliers to ensure products meet customer expectations on sustainability."