Queensland produces magnificent catches of seafood, but consumers are often in the dark about whether they’re putting local produce on the table over the summer holidays.
LNP Leader Deb Frecklington said an LNP Government would implement a labelling policy to inform consumers if seafood was caught in Queensland waters or imported from overseas.
“Seafood is a popular choice for families over Christmas and the New Year period and I want families to celebrate with Queensland produce,” Ms Frecklington said.
“Whether it’s scallops from Hervey Bay, Mooloolaba king prawns or Moreton Bay bugs, Queensland is renowned for top-quality seafood.
“Buying Queensland seafood this Christmas in a win-win for consumers and backing local jobs.
“Our labelling policy will make it crystal clear where seafood originated, from ship to store.
“Demand for seafood is huge at this time of year and I want Queensland produce to come first.”
An enormous 30 million kilograms of seafood was imported into Queensland in 2017-18 and businesses currently don’t have to label where it came from.
If elected in 2020, the LNP would change Food Act 2006 legislation in Queensland so any business selling seafood for immediate consumption must identify where the product originated.
Ms Frecklington said the fishing industry was vitally important to communities up and down Queensland’s coastline.
“The entire seafood supply chain will benefit from our policy because it supports commercial fishers and local businesses, and helps consumers make informed decisions to support local produce,” she said.
“The LNP’s policy is about supporting a strong local seafood industry where businesses can create more jobs and consumers can enjoy Queensland seafood.”
