In recent years, as seafood markets and supermarket stalls have become more prevalent, consumers often ask whether the seafood they are purchasing is wild or farmed. This concern has grown especially after reports of turbot (a type of fish known as "Treasure Fish") being found with banned drugs in cities like Shanghai and Beijing. These incidents have raised awareness among consumers about the safety of seafood products. So, what exactly is farmed seafood, and how does it differ from wild-caught? Are farmed seafood products safe? To explore these questions, a reporter recently spoke with several marine fisheries experts.
Not all types of seafood can be farmed. According to Yu Guiyun, director of the Department of Fisheries at the provincial oceanic and fisheries bureau, some common saltwater fish such as striped fish, squid, sardines, boss fish, and small yellow croakers cannot be cultured. Meanwhile, species like salmon, black sea bream, yellow croakers, and six-line fish are both fished and farmed. Many popular species, including turbot, semi-smooth tongue, and certain types of shellfish, are mostly farmed.
Hairtail and squid are commonly found on dinner tables. According to Yu, the annual catch of hairtail in the province is 126,000 tons, mainly coming from Zhejiang Zhoushan, Fujian, and coastal areas of our province. Squid, which were once abundant in Bohai Bay, are now mostly caught from local waters. The annual squid catch is 188,000 tons, making it the top marine fish by production.
Yu also noted that out of the total marine fish production of 1.73 million tons in the province, 1.61 million tons come from fishing, while the rest are farmed. Among the farmed species, prawns—such as Chinese prawns, Japanese prawns, and white prawns—are mainly farmed, with an annual production of 44,000 tons. Crabs, with an annual catch of 28,000 tons, are also partially farmed, particularly river crabs.
Some consumers believe that farmed seafood is inferior to wild-caught. However, Li Lujing, a researcher at the provincial fishery technology promotion station, explained that this is a misconception. Many farmed species, like squid and black sea bream, are raised in deep-sea cages that mimic natural conditions. Shellfish such as mussels and scallops grow naturally in their environments. Even pond-raised fish and shrimp are kept under strict conditions, often in cleaner water than natural habitats.
There are also concerns that farmed crabs may be treated with drugs. Li clarified that yellow crabs are not farmed, and the ones seen in restaurants are typically caught. As for other species, farmers carefully select them based on quality.
Healthy aquaculture methods, such as factory farming and deep-water cage culture, have been widely adopted. Factory farming uses advanced systems for water control, temperature regulation, and automation, ensuring high-quality output. Deep-water farming, which involves raising fish in open seas, benefits from better water quality and natural food sources. Our province has over 1,870 deep-water cages, the highest number in the country.
Despite Japan’s strict “positive list†regulations, Shandong’s aquatic products continue to be exported successfully. The province leads the nation in both output and exports, with 482,000 tons of seafood exported in the first half of the year, generating $1.45 billion. Rigorous quality control measures, including drug testing and certification, ensure the safety and compliance of Shandong’s seafood.
With nearly 100 provincial fishery standards, 28 standardized breeding bases, and 254 pollution-free aquaculture zones, the province has made significant progress in maintaining high-quality seafood. The results show a steady improvement in product safety, with a drug residue compliance rate of 96.6% in 2006. Overall, the future of aquaculture looks promising, with sustainable and safe practices becoming the norm.
Soy Lecithin Powder
Soy lecithin powder is a substance derived from soybeans that is commonly used as an emulsifier, stabilizer, and thickener in food products. It is a natural source of phospholipids, which are essential components of cell membranes. Soy lecithin powder is often added to chocolate, baked goods, and other processed foods to improve texture and prevent separation of ingredients. It is also used in the production of dietary supplements and pharmaceuticals. Soy lecithin powder is generally considered safe for consumption, although some people with soy allergies may need to avoid it.
Soy Lecithin Powder,Soya Lecithin Powder,Soybean Powder,Soybean Lecithin Powder
Jiangsu Chenwei Biology and Technology Co. LTD , https://www.cwsoybean.com