FDA Proposes Voluntary U.S. Caught Seafood Labels

Shoppers may soon find new labels helping them identify seafood caught by U.S. fishermen in the grocery aisle.

Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Organic Food

Flat opaque gouache-painted illustration of a single mackerel on a ceramic tray, evoking transparency in domestic seafood labeling. — The FDA has proposed a new voluntary 'U.S. Caught Seafood' label to help shoppers identify domestic fish amid a $5 billion support package. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Would you prefer that all seafood sold in grocery stores have mandatory country-of-origin labels?

The FDA has proposed a new voluntary U.S. Caught Seafood label to help shoppers identify the origin of their fish. This initiative coincides with a separate plan to offer $5 billion in federal loans to support the domestic fishing industry.

Why it matters

As the United States currently imports 80% of its seafood, these proposed labels aim to provide consumers with clearer information at the point of purchase. The move serves to increase transparency regarding product sourcing for shoppers seeking domestic options.

Official government reports from 2023 reveal that 80% of all seafood consumed in the United States was imported, valued at $25 billion, compared to a domestic catch valued at $5.1 billion. The specifics regarding label qualification requirements remain under investigation.

The players

Food and Drug Administration

The federal agency responsible for regulating food safety and labeling requirements in the United States.

U.S. Department of Agriculture

The federal executive department that manages the distribution of the proposed $5 billion in loans to the fishing industry.

President Donald Trump

The current President of the United States who is advancing new policies for the seafood and fishing sectors.

The details

The proposed voluntary U.S. Caught Seafood label would allow companies to mark products sourced from domestic commercial fishermen. To further bolster the domestic industry, the administration is preparing $5 billion in loans through the U.S. Department of Agriculture to help fishermen purchase new equipment. These funds are intended to increase the capacity and competitiveness of domestic seafood harvesting.

In 2023, the U.S. imported $25 billion worth of seafood products.
During 2023, 80% of the seafood consumed in the United States was imported.

Health Landscape

This proposal follows the established framework of the Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) law, which governs how the origins of various food products are disclosed. By introducing a voluntary domestic label, the government is attempting to pivot from existing reliance on heavy seafood imports.

If you prioritize local sourcing, watch for the U.S. Caught Seafood label on product packaging to help identify domestic options. Consult with your local grocer or fishmonger if you have questions about specific catch origins while these labeling standards are being finalized.

The takeaway

Transparency in food sourcing allows you to make informed decisions about your seafood choices. Keep an eye on evolving labeling standards to better identify domestic products at your local market.