Shark meat sold in the U.S. includes endangered species

In the United States, research conducted by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill reveals alarming findings regarding the sale of shark meat. The study, published in the Frontiers in Marine Science journal, involved testing 29 shark products acquired from various grocery stores and seafood markets in North Carolina, Florida, Georgia, and Washington, D.C. The samples included 19 fillets and 10 jerky products purchased online. Researchers utilized DNA barcoding to identify the species of each product and compared those findings to the labels on the packaging, discovering a significant discrepancy in labeling practices. The results were concerning, as 93% of the lab-tested shark products were labeled simply as 'shark,' void of specific species identification. Among the sampled products, 31% were found to originate from species classified as endangered or critically endangered, including great hammerhead, scalloped hammerhead, tope, and shortfin mako sharks. Other species tested were categorized as vulnerable or near-threatened, including spinner, lemon, common thresher, blacktip, smooth-hound, and Pacific angel sharks. The presence of these endangered species raises significant conservation concerns, as market practices may contribute to their decline. Moreover, the implications of mislabeled products extend beyond conservation issues. Certain species, such as scalloped hammerhead and great hammerhead sharks, are known to contain elevated levels of toxic substances like mercury and methylmercury, as well as arsenic. These substances are associated with serious health risks, including neurological and developmental issues. Consequently, consumers purchasing shark meat without species-specific labeling are unknowingly exposing themselves to these health threats. Researchers emphasize the urgency for stricter regulations that mandate species-specific labeling for shark meat sold in the U.S. To aid consumer safety and promote sustainable practices, lead researcher Savannah J. Ryburn suggested that U.S. sellers be required to provide clear species-specific names on shark products. Furthermore, she advised consumers to refrain from purchasing shark meat that lacks traceable sourcing, especially when it is not essential for food security. The growing concern over both health risks and the conservation of endangered shark species necessitates immediate action and increased awareness among consumers and suppliers alike.