Catfish Misleadingly Sold in UK Fish and Chip Shops

A study reveals that many UK fish and chip shops are misleading customers by selling catfish instead of traditional fish like cod and haddock. This practice raises significant concerns about food safety and public trust.

DNA testing confirmed that all three takeaways claiming to sell ‘fish’ were actually serving catfish. This misrepresentation occurs despite the fact that around 380 million meals are served annually by fish and chip shops in Britain.

In Maryland, officials are studying the use of gill nets for the commercial harvesting of invasive blue catfish, which threaten native species in the Chesapeake Bay, particularly blue crab. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is evaluating bycatch risks associated with these nets.

The state’s Invasive Blue Catfish Pilot Program aims to shift public perception and build markets for blue catfish, which can be a safe source of protein. Eating catfish is considered safe, but shops should clearly list the species on their menus to maintain public trust.

Professor Stefano Mariani noted, “In my experience with fish and chips, three out of 10 is quite a lot – I don’t recall seeing this level of catfish.” Andrew Crook added, “When you go and get fish and chips most people expect a marine species, so cod, haddock or plaice.”

The discrepancy between what is advertised and what is served could damage customer confidence in the industry. As more consumers become aware of these practices, the demand for transparency in food sourcing may increase.