SeafoodSource, February 21, 2024
The seafood industry is undergoing a significant shift in its approach to sustainability marketing due to a series of lawsuits targeting companies like Mowi, Gorton’s, ALDI, Conagra, Bumble Bee Foods, and Red Lobster. These legal actions, whether pending or settled, are prompting companies to reevaluate their marketing practices. Arlin Wasserman, founder of Changing Tastes and former Sodexo executive, emphasizes that judges are increasingly holding companies accountable for truthful and science-backed sustainability claims. He points out that many current sustainability labels may be misleading consumers and failing to meet industry standards. With the recent rulings acknowledging the merit of lawsuits, more legal challenges are expected, particularly against companies relying on third-party certifications. Wasserman advises the industry to proactively change its practices to avoid future legal repercussions.
