An official measure was set in Russia to test labeling of both red and black caviar. The plan covers a period starting from mid-April 2023 and concluding at the end of March 2024, and it was formalized by a decree signed by the prime minister. The aim is to identify sturgeon caviar and salmon caviar (red caviar) when it is packed for consumer use across the country during this trial window.
The decree outlines a temporary framework for marking caviar products and calls for close supervision by several federal bodies. Among the agencies named are the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the Ministry of Agriculture, the Federal Fisheries Agency, and other related departments. Their role is to monitor the implementation, ensure compliance, and assess the system’s effectiveness as the labeling program unfolds.
According to the labeling operator, the Center for Advanced Technologies Development, the project is designed to protect consumers from illegal or uncertified fish products. The initiative also aims to lower health risks associated with mislabeled or substandard seafood, supporting consumer confidence and public health standards across the market for fish products.
Practical guidance for shoppers is offered by industry representatives. When selecting caviar, color can be a helpful cue, though it is not the sole indicator of quality. Caviar color can vary, and in many batches it may appear bright red rather than uniform. In addition to color, observers are advised to assess the texture and consistency of the product and to look for signs of moisture loss, clumping, or irregular grains that could indicate improper handling or processing. These considerations help buyers distinguish genuine, well-produced caviar from lower-quality or counterfeit items.
Overall, the labeling experiment represents a coordinated effort among government ministries and industry partners to improve traceability and consumer protection in Russia’s seafood sector. By documenting the journey from production to packaging, authorities hope to bolster trust in market offerings while advancing food safety and compliance across the regional supply chain.