Grocery giants demand stronger seafood traceability in Canada's supply chain

A coalition of 26 grocery chains, industry leaders, and experts has called on the Canadian government to strengthen seafood traceability. In a letter published on 22 March 2022, they urged officials to expand current standards and ensure full transparency from harvest to sale. The push comes as the House of Commons Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans reviews the country’s seafood tracking systems. The letter, submitted to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, demands a clear plan and timeline for boat-to-plate traceability. Signatories argue that robust tracking is essential for combating fraud, mislabelling, and illegal fishing. They also highlight its role in addressing human rights abuses within the supply chain.

Better traceability would give Canadians reliable information about where and how their seafood is caught. The coalition stresses that transparency supports the long-term health of Canada’s seafood industry. Without it, sustainability and consumer trust remain at risk. The campaign aligns with efforts by organisations working to end overfishing. By promoting sustainable choices, they aim to ensure fisheries remain viable for future generations.

The letter’s proposals focus on concrete steps to improve supply chain oversight. If adopted, the measures would provide clearer data on seafood origins and production methods. This could help safeguard both marine ecosystems and the integrity of Canada’s seafood market.