An independent investigation has found that many Shreveport-area restaurants are serving imported shrimp while leading customers to believe they’re eating local Gulf-caught seafood. The study, conducted by SeaD Consulting over a three-day period in March, tested shrimp samples from 24 restaurants. The results showed that 71% of the shrimp was imported, and 58% of the businesses were misleading consumers through menu wording or staff claims.
Although the restaurants that served imported shrimp were not publicly named, the report did highlight seven establishments that were confirmed to be serving genuine domestic Gulf shrimp. Those restaurants included Chuck Wagon Crawfish, Copeland’s of New Orleans (Shreveport location), The Crabby Crawfish, Drago’s Seafood in Bossier City, Flying Burger and Seafood, The Noble Savage, and Oyster Bar & Grille.
Labeling foreign shrimp as local is a violation of Louisiana law and could result in fines or legal penalties. SeaD officials pointed out that some restaurants used terms like “Gulf shrimp” despite serving product raised in foreign aquaculture operations. Erin Williams of SeaD called the misrepresentation “outright deceptive” and said the goal of the testing is to promote transparency and protect both consumers and local fishermen.
This latest round of testing in Shreveport revealed the highest rate of mislabeling seen in any Louisiana city so far. Previous tests showed lower rates in Lafayette, Baton Rouge, and New Orleans. While state authorities have issued thousands of warnings in the past, actual fines and enforcement actions have been minimal. SeaD and the Louisiana Shrimp Task Force are now pushing for stronger penalties and clearer labeling standards.
The group’s testing uses genetic identification techniques that can determine shrimp origin in under two hours. SeaD plans to continue expanding its testing program throughout the region to hold seafood vendors accountable and protect the authenticity of Gulf shrimp.
Source: Louisiana Illuminator
