Truth in advertising is important and it is time out for those merchants who play “dumb” as they serve an inferior and less expensive product; without passing on the savings to the consumer.
In a conversation with State Representative Carl O. Sherman (D-109), the deception by businesses needed to be addressed. After all, how could the word “catfish” be in the name of your business and you don’t serve “catfish?”
Which brings me to my truth.
This week, I received the following notice:
“Next time you order catfish from a restaurant menu thank State Representative Carl O. Sherman (D-109) if House Bill 928 passes this legislative session.
Rep. Sherman’s House Bill relates to the sale and identification of Swai fish, since currently restaurants are not required to label Swai fish; resulting in restaurant and food service providers many times mislabeling it as catfish.
“I believe in the transparency of proper labeling in regard to the type of fish a consumer is being served when ordering a meal or buying a product,” Rep. Sherman said. “Swai fish, also known as Pangasius or Basa, is a type of fish that is often used to make fish fillets. It is a less expensive catfish substitution and I believe consumers have a right to know what they are being served.
Swai fish has, over the years, been sold under the false identity of as many as 19 various types of fish. It is usually farmed in crowded, large scale fish farms and imported from Asia.
“I also have concern with the type of farming being done regarding Swai fish since the methods used to farm elicit environmental concerns as well as a disturbing mercury level that questions health safety.”
With this bill being passed consumers will not have to worry about the current mislabeling of Swai fish and can be assured what they order, or purchase is indeed the product they are receiving.
To watch the procedure of this House Bill follow the Public Health committee at
https://house.texas.gov/video-audio/
WELL, WELL, WELL! All, I can say is thanks to Rep. Sherman. Not trying to put people out of business, but am trying to get them to do the right thing!
Also, check out what I had to say about Swai, three years ago!
