A new Senate bill introduced by Republican Corey Simon from Tallahassee could bring truth in advertising to seafood in Florida this summer. The bill, SB 428, would establish a Florida Wild Fish and Seafood Certification Program, requiring fishmongers to disclose whether their products are wild caught or farmed, and whether they are American or foreign. The program would set up quality certification standards for fish and shrimp, addressing harvest and packaging processes. Vendors would need permits to participate, allowing for state oversight.
If the bill becomes law, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services would enforce the program, with requirements for disposal of non-compliant product. Vendors selling foreign or farmed fish would need to clearly label their products with a sign near the fish display, and restaurants would have to disclose the origin of the fish on menus with prominent typeface. Additionally, they would need to post a sign similar to those found in fish markets.
The goal of the bill is to provide transparency to consumers about the seafood they are purchasing, ensuring they know whether the fish is wild caught or farmed, and whether it is domestic or foreign. By implementing these requirements, the bill aims to improve the quality and integrity of the seafood industry in Florida.
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