If you recently opened a can of mackerel fish and felt a suspicious smell, you probably thought right. The fishing crisis and declining fish resources have led some major brands, including Princes and some store brands, to use jack mackerel instead of traditional mackerel fish.
Are Consumers Being Deceived?
This change has sparked severe criticism from consumer groups who believe that this change not only reduces the quality of the product but also deceives consumers. Many buyers believe they should be aware of what is really in the canned goods.
As traditional mackerel is declining due to overfishing, brands have moved towards cheaper alternatives. But is this change really beneficial for consumers?
Consequences of the Fishing Crisis
The fishing crisis has not only led to a decrease in food diversity but can also have negative impacts on public health. Many consumers may remain unaware of these changes and as a result, inadvertently purchase lower quality food.
While major brands seek to cut costs, the responsibility to inform consumers lies with them. Should we as consumers be more aware of the food content we consume? This is an important question that needs to be addressed.
