Shoppers buying raw ʻahi at Kauaʻi grocery stores and seafood counters began seeing new country-of-origin labels on Wednesday with a new state law taking effect that requires consumer transparency.
The label requirement stems from Act 238 that was approved by state lawmakers last year and applies to retailers licensed under the federal Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act of 1930, which generally including businesses that purchase more than $230,000 in fresh or frozen produce annually.
State agriculture officials say the measure is intended to help consumers make informed purchasing decisions while highlighting Hawaiʻi’s commercial tuna industry.
“Consumers deserve clear and accurate information about the food they buy,” said Sharon Hurd, chairperson of the state Board of Agriculture & Biosecurity.
“This law provides shoppers with country-of-origin information at the point of sale while recognizing the value of Hawaiʻi’s commercial fishing industry.”
Retailers who do not comply may receive warnings and be subject to enforcement actions.
Businesses, residents or visitors seeking further information about the labeling requirements can contact the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity by emailing: dab.ms.labeling@hawaii.gov.
