What is Fair Trade Shrimp?

Many of today’s consumers care about how their food is sourced and make purchasing decisions based on their values. The Fair Trade movement connects with those values, “putting people and planet first,” says Fair Trade USA.  The nonprofit manages a “rigorous, and globally recognized sustainable sourcing certification program that improves livelihoods, protects the environment, and builds resilient, transparent supply chains,” they explain. 

The Fair Trade seal on a product reflects verification of safe working conditions, environmental protection, and sustainable livelihoods for those involved in producing the product. Fair Trade certification covers a range of product categories, from food and apparel to home goods, with 1.6 million fair trade producers worldwide, says Fair Trade USA.

Consumer adoption of Fair Trade

Fair Trade is taking center stage as ethical considerations play an increasing role in consumers’ food purchasing preferences. According to the 2023 consumer trends outlook from the Institute of Food Technologists, “Industry observers predict that the desire to eat foods that are positioned as ethically produced will only grow. More than half (54%) of global consumers believe they can make a difference to the world through their purchase decisions…” 

A trends analysis from the International Food Information Council concludes that “Americans in 2022 can expect their conception of sustainability to broaden and its role in their attitudes and behaviors to become more firmly ‘cemented in’.” Their survey indicated that consumers’ support for sustainability “will extend beyond the physical environment and into social issues,” such as fair and equitable treatment of workers. They predict that support for “social sustainability” will continue to grow, especially among younger consumers.

Likewise, Fair Trade USA’s 2021 Consumer Insights analysis indicates that 86% of consumers “want more sustainable and equitable products in the post-pandemic market.”

Fair Trade brand recognition

Fair Trade USA notes that “verified statements of a brand’s impact build trust.” Their research indicates particularly high recognition of the Fair Trade Certified seal among younger consumers. More than three-quarters of Millennials, along with 67% of Gen Z members, recognize the seal. Across demographics, 78% of consumers trust the seal.

Most importantly, Fair Trade USA research reveals that one in three consumers is more likely to buy a product that carries the Fair Trade Certified seal.

New Fair Trade Shrimp Options

Chicken of the Sea Frozen Foods is now the largest U.S. importer of Fair Trade-certified shrimp, following signing of an agreement with Thai Union Frozen and Avanti Frozen Foods. Commented Fair Trade USA, “This partnership moves the shrimp industry toward safer working conditions, improved environmental and human rights protections, and greater equity throughout the seafood supply chain.” The partnership also marks the first Fair Trade shrimp certification in India, while also covering other geographic regions. U.S. shrimp imports come from multiple regions across the globe. Imports from India represents 38% of the market share, making it the top region, according to Intrafish.

If you are a purchaser of frozen shrimp, choosing Fair Trade shrimp could connect you with a more resilient supply chain, suggest Fair Trade USA, because “Fair Trade Certification compliance measures help businesses actively minimize risk throughout their supply chain.”

Sourcing Fair Trade-certified shrimp can be a winning strategy for meeting market demand, building trust with your customers, and driving your seafood sales. Learn more about frozen shrimp products.