We dive into the Tuna debate. As this seafood favorite flies off shelves, questions around sustainability and mercury levels are swimming to the surface. Is the Tuna on your plate truly safe and eco-friendly, or is there more lurking beneath the waves? Stick around as we uncover what you need to know before your next bite.

Tuna on Your Plate, Oceans at Risk?

Red Lobster, the Orlando-based seafood chain, filed for chapter 11 bankruptcy this weekend. The company cited high labor costs, rising rents, and its unlimited shrimp deal as primary factors.

Red Lobster closes 93 locations amid crisis

If you like to indulge in lobsters, shrimp, tuna, and other seafood then you need to be more careful. According to a recent study, there can be potential downsides to eating seafood.

If you like to indulge in lobsters, shrimp, tuna, and other seafood then you need to be more careful. According to a recent study, there can be potential downsides to eating seafood. Scientists from Dartmouth College in the UK revealed that frequent consumption of seafood could expose you to "forever chemicals" or per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The study noted that while guidelines for safe seafood consumption exist for mercury and other contaminants it doesn't exist for "forever chemicals". "Our recommendation isn't to eat seafood -- seafood is a great source of lean protein and omega fatty acids. But it also is a potentially underestimated source of PFAS exposure in humans," Megan Romano, corresponding author and Associate Professor of Epidemiology at Dartmouth College's Geisel School of Medicine in the UK explained. How did they reach this conclusion? The study analysed 26 different types of PFAS in popular marine spices such as cod, haddock, lobster, salmon, scallop, shrimp, and tuna and noted that shrimp and lobster contained the highest concentrations of PFAS. Also read: Changes in eyesight linked to early signs of Alzheimer’s and dementia: Study Their study, published in the journal Exposure and Health, discovered that particular PFAS chemicals were present at average amounts of 1.74 and 3.30 nanograms per gram of meat in shrimp and lobster, respectively. These compounds, known for their gradual disintegration over time, represent a substantial hazard to both human health and the environment. "Understanding this risk-benefit trade-off for seafood consumption is important for people making decisions about diet, especially for vulnerable populations such as pregnant women and children," Romano added. Studies have linked PFAS exposure to various health issues, including cancer, fetal abnormalities, high cholesterol, and thyroid, liver, and reproductive disorders. Despite the potential risks, there are currently no established guidelines for safe seafood consumption concerning PFAS. (With inputs from agencies)

Seafood consumption linked to ‘forever chemicals’, scientists warn

The supermarket at the U.S. military's Yokota Air Base in Tokyo began stocking Japanese scallops on Tuesday (October 31) to help cushion the blow of a Chinese ban on the products.

US military bulk buys Japanese seafood to offset China ban

A study published on Tuesday (July 11) found that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-perils-of-deep-sea-mining-demand-for-green-technologies-threatens-marine-life-613959">deep-sea mining</a> could interfere with the expected change of migration patterns of tuna driven by climate change, to areas of the Pacific where mining activities are set to take place. The findings of the research were published alongside a letter by the seafood groups calling for a halt to deep-sea mining plans.&nbsp;

<h2>What did the study find?</h2>

The study published in the Nature Journal npj Ocean Sustainability shows that the migration patterns of tuna would likely alter due to climate change. Three species of tuna and the future biomass of these types of fish were studied in two climate change scenarios with the emissions being moderate and one with high emissions.&nbsp;

According to the study, the total biomass of bigeye (10-11 per cent), skipjack (30-31 per cent) and yellowfish tuna (23 per cent) will increase by 2050 in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/more-than-5000-new-species-discovered-in-planned-mining-zone-of-pacific-ocean-596583">Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ)</a>, an area of the Pacific Ocean south-east of Hawaii, which may soon be subjected to deep-sea mining operations.&nbsp;

The study’s co-author Dr Juliano Palacios Abrantes from the University of British Columbia said, “The high seas harbour a trove of biodiversity, and there are critical sectors of our economy that depend on this biodiversity.”&nbsp;

He added, “There is already uncertainty about the impact of climate change on the health and geographic range of tuna. Deep-sea mining will only add to this uncertainty, further threatening tuna species and associated fisheries.”&nbsp;

<h2>Impact on fish</h2>

Some of the potential <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/deep-sea-mining-pose-risk-to-ocean-ecosystems-study-561965">impacts</a> on the fish, according to the study, could be plumes of sediment, which can travel long distances, preventing feeding or visual communication, not to mention the possible absorption of toxic metals by the species.&nbsp;

Additionally, noise and light pollution from mining activities could disrupt behaviour, affect reproduction rates, cause stress and force changes in migratory routes.&nbsp;

<h2>Seafood industry and deep-mining</h2>

The CCZ could potentially also become a battleground between some of the world’s most valuable fisheries and mining companies. Global Tuna Alliance, which accounts for 32 per cent of global tuna sales, joined hands with the Sustainable Seafood Coalition, made up of 45 British seafood firms, to criticise the 167-nation, United Nations body which regulates seabeds on the high seas.&nbsp;

The groups, citing the study, have expressed deep concern over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-shows-deep-sea-mining-could-disrupt-a-whales-ability-to-communicate-562127">potential impacts</a> of deep-sea mining on sustainable fisheries considering the “significant overlap” between the location of future fishing grounds and areas licensed for mineral exploration.&nbsp;

The groups have called for a halt ahead of the next <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-row-erupts-amid-talks-to-regulate-seabed-mining-heres-what-happened-574488">International Seabed Authority (ISA)</a> meeting&nbsp;later this month given the environmental and economic risks. “In the vast expanse of the high seas, critical for tuna species, we find ourselves sailing into uncharted territory with the unknown risks posed by deep-sea mining,” said the executive director at Global Tuna Alliance, Daniel Suddaby.&nbsp;

Similarly, the co-author of the study, Professor Douglas McCauley said, “These fishing grounds may be distant, but the food they produce is consumed by millions. We would be horrified at dumping mining waste across our food-producing regions on land.”&nbsp;

He added that decisions which could “significantly harm” ocean ecosystems, essential not only for the environment but also for planetary health and global food security, should not be rushed.&nbsp; 
 
 
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A study published on Tuesday (July 11) found that deep-sea mining could interfere with the expected change of migration patterns of tuna driven by climate change, to areas of the Pacific where mining activities are set to take place.

A study published on Tuesday (July 11) found that deep-sea mining could interfere with the expected change of migration patterns of tuna driven by climate change, to areas of the Pacific where mining activities are set to take place. The findings of the research were published alongside a letter by the seafood groups calling for a halt to deep-sea mining plans. What did the study find? The study published in the Nature Journal npj Ocean Sustainability shows that the migration patterns of tuna would likely alter due to climate change. Three species of tuna and the future biomass of these types of fish were studied in two climate change scenarios with the emissions being moderate and one with high emissions. According to the study, the total biomass of bigeye (10-11 per cent), skipjack (30-31 per cent) and yellowfish tuna (23 per cent) will increase by 2050 in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ), an area of the Pacific Ocean south-east of Hawaii, which may soon be subjected to deep-sea mining operations. The study’s co-author Dr Juliano Palacios Abrantes from the University of British Columbia said, “The high seas harbour a trove of biodiversity, and there are critical sectors of our economy that depend on this biodiversity.” He added, “There is already uncertainty about the impact of climate change on the health and geographic range of tuna. Deep-sea mining will only add to this uncertainty, further threatening tuna species and associated fisheries.” Impact on fish Some of the potential impacts on the fish, according to the study, could be plumes of sediment, which can travel long distances, preventing feeding or visual communication, not to mention the possible absorption of toxic metals by the species. Additionally, noise and light pollution from mining activities could disrupt behaviour, affect reproduction rates, cause stress and force changes in migratory routes. Seafood industry and deep-mining The CCZ could potentially also become a battleground between some of the world’s most valuable fisheries and mining companies. Global Tuna Alliance, which accounts for 32 per cent of global tuna sales, joined hands with the Sustainable Seafood Coalition, made up of 45 British seafood firms, to criticise the 167-nation, United Nations body which regulates seabeds on the high seas. The groups, citing the study, have expressed deep concern over the potential impacts of deep-sea mining on sustainable fisheries considering the “significant overlap” between the location of future fishing grounds and areas licensed for mineral exploration. The groups have called for a halt ahead of the next International Seabed Authority (ISA) meeting later this month given the environmental and economic risks. “In the vast expanse of the high seas, critical for tuna species, we find ourselves sailing into uncharted territory with the unknown risks posed by deep-sea mining,” said the executive director at Global Tuna Alliance, Daniel Suddaby. Similarly, the co-author of the study, Professor Douglas McCauley said, “These fishing grounds may be distant, but the food they produce is consumed by millions. We would be horrified at dumping mining waste across our food-producing regions on land.” He added that decisions which could “significantly harm” ocean ecosystems, essential not only for the environment but also for planetary health and global food security, should not be rushed. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Seafood industry opposes deep-sea mining plans as study shows potential impact on tuna fisheries

3D printing is one of the most innovative developments in recent years. It is changing business models and transforming working environments. 3D printing has impacted aerospace, medical technology as well as the automotive industry. 3D Printing, however, has now also stepped into the food industry. Apart from 3D printed models & buildings, ready-to-cook 3D printed fishes are also entering the market.

Now you can 3D print a new kind of fish to fry

Scientists in Denmark are fermenting seaweed on fungi to develop the closest substitute for seafood yet. They are working with Alchemist, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant, to meet demand from diners for sustainable plant-based alternatives that are as good as or better than the real thing.

“We scientists are not good at understanding how to make things delicious, and this decides whether people will eat them. There’s a lot we can learn from each other. [Working with chefs] is slowly emerging, but it hasn’t happened so far to the extent that would be needed to end up with products that are really good,” said Dr Leonie Jahn, the microbiologist leading the project, as reported by The Guardian.

Rasmus Munk, the head chef and co-owner of Alchemist, told The Guardian that the restaurant wanted to “change people’s perception of ‘new foods’”. Creating seafood alternatives was important, he said, because “frankly I haven’t found anything on the market right now that I would put on the menu”.

Also Read:&nbsp;Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-netizens-compare-potholes-on-bihar-national-highway-to-takeshis-castle-491689">Netizens compare potholes on Bihar national highway to Takeshi’s castle</a>

“The ultimate goal is to create a product that is so delicious in its own right, that it is chosen over other foods on the sole criterion of tastiness,” he added.

According to a report from the Good Food Institute, which is funding the project, 2021 was a year of “tremendous growth” for the alternative seafood market, with 18 new companies launching and sales rising at an “astonishing rate”. The report described alternative seafood as a “white space opportunity”, meaning there was huge untapped consumer demand.

(with inputs from agencies) 
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Scientists in Denmark are fermenting seaweed on fungi to develop the closest substitute for seafood yet. They are working with Alchemist, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant, to meet demand from diners for sustainable plant-based alternatives that are as good as or better than the real thing.

Scientists in Denmark are fermenting seaweed on fungi to develop the closest substitute for seafood yet. They are working with Alchemist, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant, to meet demand from diners for sustainable plant-based alternatives that are as good as or better than the real thing. “We scientists are not good at understanding how to make things delicious, and this decides whether people will eat them. There’s a lot we can learn from each other. [Working with chefs] is slowly emerging, but it hasn’t happened so far to the extent that would be needed to end up with products that are really good,” said Dr Leonie Jahn, the microbiologist leading the project, as reported by The Guardian. Rasmus Munk, the head chef and co-owner of Alchemist, told The Guardian that the restaurant wanted to “change people’s perception of ‘new foods’”. Creating seafood alternatives was important, he said, because “frankly I haven’t found anything on the market right now that I would put on the menu”. Also Read: Watch: Netizens compare potholes on Bihar national highway to Takeshi’s castle “The ultimate goal is to create a product that is so delicious in its own right, that it is chosen over other foods on the sole criterion of tastiness,” he added. According to a report from the Good Food Institute, which is funding the project, 2021 was a year of “tremendous growth” for the alternative seafood market, with 18 new companies launching and sales rising at an “astonishing rate”. The report described alternative seafood as a “white space opportunity”, meaning there was huge untapped consumer demand. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Danish scientists working on developing seafood substitute using seaweed and fungi

As a Spanish company aims to construct the first commercial octopus farm next year, spurred on by rising seafood demand, as scientists learn more about the enigmatic animals, some fear it will be an ethical and environmental disaster.&nbsp;

Proponents of the project argue that the breeding programmes will relieve pressure on overburdened fisheries while also creating jobs in the area.

However, ethicists, zoologists, and environmentalists are sceptical, stating that there are numerous reasons why octopuses should not be farmed.

On paper, octopus farms seem like a good idea, because many regularly consumed species can reproduce quickly, gain body mass quickly, and mature in a year or two.

The idea of octopus aquaculture, on the other hand, comes with a slew of costs and issues.&nbsp;

They're finicky eaters, especially when they're young, and like to consume live prey.

Octopuses do not do well in confinement, and when confined with one another, they can become violent, even mutilating themselves.

Furthermore, octopuses are known escape artists, finding ingenious ways to get free at any given moment.

Aquaculture as a whole continues to be a major source of environmental concern as of late.

Despite tremendous progress over the last two decades, the fishing industry continues to be a source of aquatic pests and diseases, pollution, and greenhouse gases.

Companies like Nueva Pescanova approach these challenges pragmatically, intending to overcome them through research, though they're notoriously tight-lipped about what that could entail.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

As a Spanish company aims to construct the first commercial octopus farm next year, spurred on by rising seafood demand, as scientists learn more about the enigmatic animals, some fear it will be an ethical and environmental disaster.

As a Spanish company aims to construct the first commercial octopus farm next year, spurred on by rising seafood demand, as scientists learn more about the enigmatic animals, some fear it will be an ethical and environmental disaster. Proponents of the project argue that the breeding programmes will relieve pressure on overburdened fisheries while also creating jobs in the area. However, ethicists, zoologists, and environmentalists are sceptical, stating that there are numerous reasons why octopuses should not be farmed. On paper, octopus farms seem like a good idea, because many regularly consumed species can reproduce quickly, gain body mass quickly, and mature in a year or two. The idea of octopus aquaculture, on the other hand, comes with a slew of costs and issues. They're finicky eaters, especially when they're young, and like to consume live prey. Octopuses do not do well in confinement, and when confined with one another, they can become violent, even mutilating themselves. Furthermore, octopuses are known escape artists, finding ingenious ways to get free at any given moment. Aquaculture as a whole continues to be a major source of environmental concern as of late. Despite tremendous progress over the last two decades, the fishing industry continues to be a source of aquatic pests and diseases, pollution, and greenhouse gases. Companies like Nueva Pescanova approach these challenges pragmatically, intending to overcome them through research, though they're notoriously tight-lipped about what that could entail. (With inputs from agencies)

World's first octopus farm raises serious ethical concerns

France has warned of possible sanctions against Britain including a ban on seafood imports and disrupting trade amid an escalating row over post-Brexit fishing licences.

France threatens sanctions against UK over fishing licences row

A tuna fishing boat based in the Pacific island nation of Fiji that has been accused of essentially enslaving its crew was blocked Wednesday from importing seafood into the United States, part of an increasing effort to keep goods produced with forced labour from entering the country.

US Customs and Border Protection issued an order to stop any shipments into American ports from the Hangton No. 112, a longliner operated by a Chinese national after the agency determined there was credible evidence that the crew was subjected to conditions defined as forced labour under international standards.

It's the latest in a series of such orders targeting Asian fishing vessels amid reports that crews made up largely of vulnerable migrant workers from poorer countries are subjected to horrific conditions by operators travelling farther out to sea and for longer periods as fish populations decline worldwide.

"Foreign fishing vessels like the Hangton No. 112 continue to lure vulnerable migrant workers into forced labour situations so that they can sell seafood below market value, which threatens the livelihoods of American fishermen," CBP Acting Commissioner Troy Miller said in a statement released ahead of the announcement of the order. "CBP will continue to stand up against these vessels’ abusive labour practices by preventing the introduction of their unethically harvested seafood into the US market."

Records show about $40 million in tuna and other fish from Hangton No. 112 have been imported into the US market in recent years despite industry efforts to address the issue, said Ana Hinojosa, executive director of the CBP directorate that investigates allegations of forced labour. The agency does not publicly identify the importers who received the shipments.

CBP said its investigation found evidence that the crew of the Hangton 112 had wages improperly withheld from them, their identity documents were taken and they were kept in "debt bondage," which typically involves charging workers an excessive amount in advance for travel and other expenses and holding them until they work to pay them off.

The agency found additional conditions that were "difficult to read," Hinojosa said, even considering that fishing is a notoriously difficult and dangerous industry. "I wouldn’t call it a fun job, but there are certain protections of human rights that are expected in any kind of working environment."

In May, the US blocked imports of seafood from the entire fleet of a Chinese company with more than 30 ships that authorities say forced crew members to work in slave-like conditions that led to the deaths of several Indonesian fishermen last year. CBP has also issued orders against individual vessels from Taiwan and elsewhere.

The 102-foot (34-meter) Hangton No. 112 operates with a crew of about a dozen, according to online records. The boat was cited in a December 2019 investigative report by Greenpeace Southeast Asia and the Indonesian Migrant Workers Union that documented abusive conditions in the Pacific fishing fleet. The operator denied the allegations at the time.

Advocates such as Greenpeace say, migrant workers, often from the Philippines and Indonesia, are particularly vulnerable to abusive labour conditions, with brokers often taking a cut of their wages and ship operators and companies forcing them to work extreme hours and endure brutal treatment in one of the most dangerous occupations, with no recourse and no way to escape while at sea.

In recent years, the issue of unregulated fishing has gained increased attention, not just for the abusive treatment of workers, but also for the damage it does to the environment, economies around the world, and food supply.

The investigation into the fishing industry by The Associated Press, which received the 2016 Pulitzer Prize for Public Service, resulted in the freeing of more than 2,000 slaves and traced the seafood they caught to supermarkets and pet food providers around the US.

A tuna fishing boat based in the Pacific island nation of Fiji that has been accused of essentially enslaving its crew was blocked Wednesday from importing seafood into the United States, part of an increasing effort to keep goods produced with forced labour from entering the country.

A tuna fishing boat based in the Pacific island nation of Fiji that has been accused of essentially enslaving its crew was blocked Wednesday from importing seafood into the United States, part of an increasing effort to keep goods produced with forced labour from entering the country. US Customs and Border Protection issued an order to stop any shipments into American ports from the Hangton No. 112, a longliner operated by a Chinese national after the agency determined there was credible evidence that the crew was subjected to conditions defined as forced labour under international standards. It's the latest in a series of such orders targeting Asian fishing vessels amid reports that crews made up largely of vulnerable migrant workers from poorer countries are subjected to horrific conditions by operators travelling farther out to sea and for longer periods as fish populations decline worldwide. "Foreign fishing vessels like the Hangton No. 112 continue to lure vulnerable migrant workers into forced labour situations so that they can sell seafood below market value, which threatens the livelihoods of American fishermen," CBP Acting Commissioner Troy Miller said in a statement released ahead of the announcement of the order. "CBP will continue to stand up against these vessels’ abusive labour practices by preventing the introduction of their unethically harvested seafood into the US market." Records show about $40 million in tuna and other fish from Hangton No. 112 have been imported into the US market in recent years despite industry efforts to address the issue, said Ana Hinojosa, executive director of the CBP directorate that investigates allegations of forced labour. The agency does not publicly identify the importers who received the shipments. CBP said its investigation found evidence that the crew of the Hangton 112 had wages improperly withheld from them, their identity documents were taken and they were kept in "debt bondage," which typically involves charging workers an excessive amount in advance for travel and other expenses and holding them until they work to pay them off. The agency found additional conditions that were "difficult to read," Hinojosa said, even considering that fishing is a notoriously difficult and dangerous industry. "I wouldn’t call it a fun job, but there are certain protections of human rights that are expected in any kind of working environment." In May, the US blocked imports of seafood from the entire fleet of a Chinese company with more than 30 ships that authorities say forced crew members to work in slave-like conditions that led to the deaths of several Indonesian fishermen last year. CBP has also issued orders against individual vessels from Taiwan and elsewhere. The 102-foot (34-meter) Hangton No. 112 operates with a crew of about a dozen, according to online records. The boat was cited in a December 2019 investigative report by Greenpeace Southeast Asia and the Indonesian Migrant Workers Union that documented abusive conditions in the Pacific fishing fleet. The operator denied the allegations at the time. Advocates such as Greenpeace say, migrant workers, often from the Philippines and Indonesia, are particularly vulnerable to abusive labour conditions, with brokers often taking a cut of their wages and ship operators and companies forcing them to work extreme hours and endure brutal treatment in one of the most dangerous occupations, with no recourse and no way to escape while at sea. In recent years, the issue of unregulated fishing has gained increased attention, not just for the abusive treatment of workers, but also for the damage it does to the environment, economies around the world, and food supply. The investigation into the fishing industry by The Associated Press, which received the 2016 Pulitzer Prize for Public Service, resulted in the freeing of more than 2,000 slaves and traced the seafood they caught to supermarkets and pet food providers around the US.

US blocks seafood from a Fiji ship accused of enslaving its crew

Researchers have warned that overfishing could threaten the world’s supply of essential vitamins and minerals gained from fisheries.&nbsp;

Globally, 1 billion people rely on fish and seafood as their primary source of protein. Also, fish is a key source of micronutrients.&nbsp;

Overfishing and the climate crisis are two of the most prominent threats to marine life. They affect the size, distribution and abundance of the marine species globally.

In order to determine how these growing pressures influence the nutritional contribution of global fisheries, a team of researchers led by Lancaster University combined data on the micronutrient content of species with a vulnerability index. This indicates species' susceptibility to climate change and overfishing.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/despite-recent-recovery-great-barrier-reef-may-not-be-able-to-survive-climate-change-398988">Also read |&nbsp;Despite recent recovery, Great Barrier Reef may not be able to survive climate change</a>

Also, the researchers applied these metrics to more than 800 fish species across 157 countries.

Dr Eva Maire, a senior research associate at Lancaster University and lead author of the study was quoted by The Guardian saying, "When we look at the country level, climate change is the most pervasive threat to the supply of vital micronutrients, and in particular in the tropics".&nbsp;

It was concluded that in just 40 per cent of the countries which were studied, fisheries are highly vulnerable to climate change, threatening food security for millions of people.&nbsp; 
Maire explained, "A key reason for why climate change is such a threat comes down to the species of fish that these countries are targeting as part of the catches".&nbsp;

Researchers have warned that overfishing could threaten the world’s supply of essential vitamins and minerals gained from fisheries. Globally, 1 billion people rely on fish and seafood as their primary source of protein.

Researchers have warned that overfishing could threaten the world’s supply of essential vitamins and minerals gained from fisheries. Globally, 1 billion people rely on fish and seafood as their primary source of protein. Also, fish is a key source of micronutrients. Overfishing and the climate crisis are two of the most prominent threats to marine life. They affect the size, distribution and abundance of the marine species globally. In order to determine how these growing pressures influence the nutritional contribution of global fisheries, a team of researchers led by Lancaster University combined data on the micronutrient content of species with a vulnerability index. This indicates species' susceptibility to climate change and overfishing. Also read | Despite recent recovery, Great Barrier Reef may not be able to survive climate change Also, the researchers applied these metrics to more than 800 fish species across 157 countries. Dr Eva Maire, a senior research associate at Lancaster University and lead author of the study was quoted by The Guardian saying, "When we look at the country level, climate change is the most pervasive threat to the supply of vital micronutrients, and in particular in the tropics". It was concluded that in just 40 per cent of the countries which were studied, fisheries are highly vulnerable to climate change, threatening food security for millions of people. Maire explained, "A key reason for why climate change is such a threat comes down to the species of fish that these countries are targeting as part of the catches".

Climate crisis, overfishing threaten access to nutrients in fish

The US government blocked imports of seafood on Friday from the entire fleet of a Chinese company that authorities say forced crew members to work in slave-like conditions that led to the deaths of several Indonesian fishermen last year.&nbsp;

Customs and Border Protection said it will place an immediate hold on any imports linked to the more than 30 vessels operated by Dalian Ocean Fishing, under a US law that bars goods suspected to have been produced with forced labour.&nbsp;

Imports from Dalian, which primarily fishes for tuna, have exceeded USD 20 million as recently as 2018. Shipments linked to the company have dropped over the past year to about USD 200,000, officials said.&nbsp;

"We will not tolerate any amount derived from forced labour," Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas told reporters as he announced the measure.&nbsp;

CBP issued what is known as a withhold release order that halts shipments that have suspected links to forced labour, under a law that has been on the books for decades, ostensibly to protect US producers from unfair competition.&nbsp;

The law has been used with increased frequency in recent years, given the growing awareness of the prevalence of what is essentially modern-day slavery in a range of industries, with workers forced to work long hours for low pay, or none at all, and subjected to violence.&nbsp;

CBP found that Dalian's operations, across the fleet, met all 11 criteria for forced labour laid out by the International Labour Organisation, including the holding back of wages, inhumane conditions and physical intimidation, said John Leonard, the acting executive assistant commissioner of the agency's Office of Trade.&nbsp;

"This was a rather egregious example," Leonard said.&nbsp;

Both the State Department and Labour Department have also documented abusive conditions in the Chinese fishing industry, where mostly foreign crews often work 18 to 22 hours per day under abysmal conditions.&nbsp;

US authorities have used the Tariff Act of 1930 to halt imports from specific companies, individual fishing vessels and all cotton and tomato products from the Xinjiang region of China, where the Chinese government is waging a brutal assimilation campaign against Uyghurs and other predominantly Muslim ethnic groups.&nbsp;

The announcement on Friday marks the first time that the US has sought to block imports from a company's entire fishing fleet, a sign that the CBP's investigation found evidence of widespread abuse on Dalian vessels around the world.&nbsp;

Indonesia's government in May 2020 accused the company of 'inhuman' treatment of fishermen from that country, with dozens of men forced to work 18 hours a day for no pay or less than agreed upon. It said the conditions led to illnesses that killed at least three fishermen, whose bodies were cast overboard into the Pacific Ocean.&nbsp;

Dalian did not immediately respond to a request for comment made through its website.&nbsp;

The company has had recent financial troubles, but Leonard said it appears to be reorganising and planning to resume operations. "We need to be vigilant," he said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The US government blocked imports of seafood on Friday from the entire fleet of a Chinese company that authorities say forced crew members to work in slave-like conditions that led to the deaths of several Indonesian fishermen last year.

The US government blocked imports of seafood on Friday from the entire fleet of a Chinese company that authorities say forced crew members to work in slave-like conditions that led to the deaths of several Indonesian fishermen last year. Customs and Border Protection said it will place an immediate hold on any imports linked to the more than 30 vessels operated by Dalian Ocean Fishing, under a US law that bars goods suspected to have been produced with forced labour. Imports from Dalian, which primarily fishes for tuna, have exceeded USD 20 million as recently as 2018. Shipments linked to the company have dropped over the past year to about USD 200,000, officials said. "We will not tolerate any amount derived from forced labour," Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas told reporters as he announced the measure. CBP issued what is known as a withhold release order that halts shipments that have suspected links to forced labour, under a law that has been on the books for decades, ostensibly to protect US producers from unfair competition. The law has been used with increased frequency in recent years, given the growing awareness of the prevalence of what is essentially modern-day slavery in a range of industries, with workers forced to work long hours for low pay, or none at all, and subjected to violence. CBP found that Dalian's operations, across the fleet, met all 11 criteria for forced labour laid out by the International Labour Organisation, including the holding back of wages, inhumane conditions and physical intimidation, said John Leonard, the acting executive assistant commissioner of the agency's Office of Trade. "This was a rather egregious example," Leonard said. Both the State Department and Labour Department have also documented abusive conditions in the Chinese fishing industry, where mostly foreign crews often work 18 to 22 hours per day under abysmal conditions. US authorities have used the Tariff Act of 1930 to halt imports from specific companies, individual fishing vessels and all cotton and tomato products from the Xinjiang region of China, where the Chinese government is waging a brutal assimilation campaign against Uyghurs and other predominantly Muslim ethnic groups. The announcement on Friday marks the first time that the US has sought to block imports from a company's entire fishing fleet, a sign that the CBP's investigation found evidence of widespread abuse on Dalian vessels around the world. Indonesia's government in May 2020 accused the company of 'inhuman' treatment of fishermen from that country, with dozens of men forced to work 18 hours a day for no pay or less than agreed upon. It said the conditions led to illnesses that killed at least three fishermen, whose bodies were cast overboard into the Pacific Ocean. Dalian did not immediately respond to a request for comment made through its website. The company has had recent financial troubles, but Leonard said it appears to be reorganising and planning to resume operations. "We need to be vigilant," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

US blocks seafood from Chinese fleet over crew mistreatment 

A research has revealed that mussels, oysters and scallops possess the highest levels of contamination due to microplastic among all seafood.This research was conducted by researchers from the Hull York Medical School and the University of Hull.

In order to investigate the levels of microplastic contamination globally in fish and shellfish, the researchers observed more than fifty studies between the years 2014 and 2020.Scientists are still trying to understand the health implications for humans consuming fish and shellfish contaminated with these tiny particles of waste plastic, which finds its ways into waterways and oceans through waste mismanagement.

Study author, Evangelos Danopoulos, a postgraduate student at Hull York Medical School said: "No-one yet fully understands the full impact of microplastics on the human body, but early evidence from other studies suggest they do cause harm."A critical step in understanding the full impact on human consumption is in first fully establishing what levels of microplastics humans are ingesting. We can start to do this by looking at how much seafood and fish is eaten and measuring the amount of MPs in these creatures."

The study shows microplastic content was 0-10.5 microplastics per gram (MPs/g) in molluscs, 0.1-8.6 MPs/g in crustaceans, 0-2.9 MPs/g in fish.The latest consumption data in the research shows China, Australia, Canada, Japan and the US are amongst the largest consumers of molluscs, followed by Europe and the UK.

Molluscs collected off the coasts of Asia were the most heavily contaminated with researchers suggesting that these areas are more heavily polluted by plastic.Evangelos Danopoulos added: "Microplastics have been found in various parts of organisms such as the intestines and the liver. Seafood species like oysters, mussels and scallops are consumed whole whereas in larger fish and mammals only parts are consumed.

Therefore, understanding the microplastic contamination of specific body parts, and their consumption by humans, is key."Plastic waste generated worldwide is expected to triple to 155-265 million metric tonnes per year by 2060. Once the plastic finds its way into oceans, lakes and rivers it has the potential to end up as microplastic inside shellfish, fish and marine mammals.

The research points to the need to standardise methods of measuring microplastic contamination so that different measurements can be more readily compared. Researchers said more data is needed from different parts of the world to understand how the issue varies between different oceans, seas and waterways.&nbsp;

A research has revealed that mussels, oysters and scallops possess the highest levels of contamination due to microplastic among all seafood.This research was conducted by researchers from the Hull York Medical School and the University of Hull.

A research has revealed that mussels, oysters and scallops possess the highest levels of contamination due to microplastic among all seafood.This research was conducted by researchers from the Hull York Medical School and the University of Hull. In order to investigate the levels of microplastic contamination globally in fish and shellfish, the researchers observed more than fifty studies between the years 2014 and 2020.Scientists are still trying to understand the health implications for humans consuming fish and shellfish contaminated with these tiny particles of waste plastic, which finds its ways into waterways and oceans through waste mismanagement. Study author, Evangelos Danopoulos, a postgraduate student at Hull York Medical School said: "No-one yet fully understands the full impact of microplastics on the human body, but early evidence from other studies suggest they do cause harm."A critical step in understanding the full impact on human consumption is in first fully establishing what levels of microplastics humans are ingesting. We can start to do this by looking at how much seafood and fish is eaten and measuring the amount of MPs in these creatures." The study shows microplastic content was 0-10.5 microplastics per gram (MPs/g) in molluscs, 0.1-8.6 MPs/g in crustaceans, 0-2.9 MPs/g in fish.The latest consumption data in the research shows China, Australia, Canada, Japan and the US are amongst the largest consumers of molluscs, followed by Europe and the UK. Molluscs collected off the coasts of Asia were the most heavily contaminated with researchers suggesting that these areas are more heavily polluted by plastic.Evangelos Danopoulos added: "Microplastics have been found in various parts of organisms such as the intestines and the liver. Seafood species like oysters, mussels and scallops are consumed whole whereas in larger fish and mammals only parts are consumed. Therefore, understanding the microplastic contamination of specific body parts, and their consumption by humans, is key."Plastic waste generated worldwide is expected to triple to 155-265 million metric tonnes per year by 2060. Once the plastic finds its way into oceans, lakes and rivers it has the potential to end up as microplastic inside shellfish, fish and marine mammals. The research points to the need to standardise methods of measuring microplastic contamination so that different measurements can be more readily compared. Researchers said more data is needed from different parts of the world to understand how the issue varies between different oceans, seas and waterways.

Among seafood highest levels of microplastics found in molluscs: Study

Oysters and politics were on the menu on Tuesday (February 25) for residents of the Palmetto State. Just outside Greenville, South Carolina, residents filled a local restaurant for a traditional oyster roast, while more than 200 miles (321 km) south in Charleston, the Democratic presidential candidates were on the debate stage as the state prepares for its primary election this Saturday (February 29).

Oysters and politics on the menu in South Carolina

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