Beaufort, South Carolina Launches “Only from Our Waters” Program to Combat Seafood Fraud

Seafood fraud and mislabeling have become pressing issues in the United States, gaining particular attention during the Trump administration. In response, South Carolina is elevating its commitment to authentic, wild-caught seafood with an initiative aimed at distinguishing genuine local offerings from imports.

Introducing the Initiative

The Beaufort Area Hospitality Association (BAHA) has announced a new program titled “Only from Our Waters,” designed to promote restaurants and businesses that serve real, locally-harvested seafood. Set to launch this fall, the initiative seeks to shine a light on the seafood industry in Port Royal Island, a popular destination for tourists.

“Across coastal regions, diners increasingly scrutinize the origins of the seafood they consume,” BAHA commented in a press release. “Here in Beaufort, we aim to showcase our commitment to this critical industry and the people who sustain it.”

Supporting Local Producers

The release emphasized that Beaufort restaurants proudly support local American-caught shrimp, oysters, fish, and crabs, expressing solidarity with the fishermen who have served as the backbone of island communities for generations. Imported seafood has posed significant challenges to these local industries, prompting the region to take proactive measures to preserve and celebrate its seafood legacy.

Addressing Mislabeling Concerns

The launch of this program coincides with the anticipation surrounding recent genetic testing conducted by SeaD Consulting, based in Houston, Texas. The company is recognized for developing rapid genetic tests to verify the origins of shrimp, receiving support from the Southern Shrimp Alliance, which advocates for domestic shrimp fishermen and processors throughout the Gulf of Mexico and Southeastern U.S.

Recently, SeaD tested shrimp samples from 44 random seafood restaurants in the Lowcountry region of South Carolina, which includes Beaufort. The results of this testing, expected around June 10, will provide insight into potential fraud, though SeaD has chosen not to disclose specific businesses involved in mislabeling.

How the Program Will Work

Beaufort’s “Only from Our Waters” initiative will take a similar approach, but with a focus on recognizing compliant businesses. Restaurants wishing to display the exclusive program logo will undergo random testing for authenticity. While establishments that do not use wild-caught seafood will not be identified, those that do will gain the right to use the logo on their menus and promotional materials.

As the seafood industry faces increasing scrutiny, programs like “Only from Our Waters” are vital in ensuring transparency and integrity within the market, helping consumers make informed choices while supporting local economies.