Report: Fish Fraud Affects 20% of Global Catch

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A new report from the FAO estimates that up to 20% of the global seafood trade may be subject to fraud, with cases of mislabeling, substitution, and other deceptive practices found in restaurants, grocery stores, and processing facilities around the world. The report highlights the economic incentives and lack of regulation that drive fish fraud, as well as emerging scientific tools that can help detect and prevent these fraudulent activities.

Why it matters

Fish fraud not only cheats consumers but can also pose risks to public health, the environment, and the sustainability of fisheries. With seafood consumption growing globally, addressing this widespread issue is crucial to ensuring the integrity of the seafood supply chain.

The details

The report cites studies suggesting that up to 30% of seafood products may be mislabeled in restaurants, and that less than 1% of seafood imports are tested for fraud in the United States. Common types of fish fraud include adding water to increase weight, adulterating products with coloring, counterfeiting imitation products, and substituting one species for another. These fraudulent practices are often driven by economic incentives, like selling farmed salmon as more expensive wild-caught salmon.

• The report was produced by the FAO and published on February 11, 2026.

What’s next

The report advocates for harmonized labeling requirements, mandatory inclusion of scientific names, and better traceability systems to help address the global issue of fish fraud.