Bangkok: Consumers are expressing shock after DNA from the "black-chinned tilapia" was discovered in canned fish, challenging statements made by the Department of Fisheries. Urgent explanations are being demanded from the government regarding this discrepancy.
According to Thai News Agency, a press conference held today at the Parliament building by Mr. Natcha Boonchaiinsawas and Mr. Nattapong Sumanothum, MPs from the People's Party, highlighted the findings of an investigation into the presence of black-chinned tilapia in canned fish. Despite previous assurances from the Department of Fisheries, the investigation revealed a mismatch between the department's claims and the product labels, which identified the fish as sardines or mackerel.
The inquiry involved sending canned fish samples to several agencies under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation for analysis. However, due to political sensitivities, further cooperation was sought from the BioThai Foundation. The results from tests in Samut Songkhram and Samut Sakhon provinces confirmed the presence of black-chinned tilapia and black-chinned gourami respectively, contradicting earlier reports.
Mr. Nattapong Sumanothum expressed concerns about the credibility of responsible agencies, warning that conflicting results could undermine public confidence. He emphasized the importance of reducing the black-chinned tilapia population to protect the ecosystem, suggesting that consumption alone is insufficient to address the issue. He urged relevant agencies to expedite investigations and prosecutions to restore consumer trust and mitigate economic impacts.
Mr. Natcha Boonchaiinsawas added that the International Center of Excellence in Seafood Science and Innovation verified the DNA as black-chinned tilapia. He called for an investigation into how these fish entered the production process, noting previous government efforts to manage the species. The findings will be submitted to the Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, and further pursued through the House of Representatives. He also highlighted the need for urgent funding and measures to address the growing black-chinned tilapia infestation, which poses a significant threat to farmers and the ecosystem.