First Rules for Labeling Farmed Fish as "Organic"

For the first time, the USDA has approved criteria that clear the way for farmed fish to be labeled "organic", according to the Washington Post.

According to the new rules, farmed fish could be labeled as organic, and yet still feed from 25% non-organic materials. This is a broad departure from the standards for any other organic meat, which must be fed exclusively on organic materials. Consumer advocates and environmentalists are also concerned by the aquaculture industry's use of open-net pens, which can allow fish waste and disease to pollute the ocean.

"What we think is at stake is not just the integrity of a standard for fish but the whole organic standard and consumer confidence in it," said Patty Lovera, assistant director of the advocacy group Food & Water Watch. "A huge part of the growth in organic is driven by people looking for food that comes with assurance. When you start bending the rules, that's a big risk."

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First Rules for Labeling Farmed Fish as "Organic"

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