PANGASIUS GUILTY OR INNOCENT?
Due to the news in the media about the consumption of Pangasius, we are aware of the social alarm this has generated. It is not our intention to start a crusade in favour of this fish, however, for the sake of truth we respond to the claims sold as truths and that do not reflect the reality about this product that presents no risk to the consumer.
- Pangasius stands out for its low proportion of fat and cholesterol. It contains polyunsaturated fatty acids, omega3, proteins, has a mild flavour, good texture and absence of bones. This fish has a composition similar to that of other marine or freshwater white fish species. Therefore, it is NOT true that Pangasius is not nutritious.
- Pangasius are omnivorous, not super predators, and its position in the food pyramid is very low. Because of industrial and environmental pollution, it is not difficult to find mercury in fishery products since this metal is absorbed by the first link in the food chain, algae. From there its concentration progressively increases. In the case of Pangasius, mercury has been found only in isolated cases and it does not even reach half of the permitted levels. A study prepared by researchers from the University of Granada, determined that it was one of the safest species for consumption. Therefore, it is NOT true that Pangasius contains high levels of mercury.
- In Pangasius no substances that exceed legal limits have never been found. There has never been a case of intoxication due to its consumption, nor has it been subject to a sanitary alert (RASFF). There are numerous organizations that work to control the levels of contamination in food. IFS Food and BRC Food establish standards and certify suppliers as safe and high-quality producers. Therefore, it is NOT true that Pangasius is contaminated.
4. The manufacturers that produce Pangasius for export comply with the sanitary requirements demanded by the European Union, certifying that it meets the essential requirements. Therefore, it is NOT true that the Pangasius that is exported is raised in cages under floating houses and are fed with homemade feed.
- The European Union authorizes the activity of the Pangasius fish farms, demanding as an indispensable requirement that reports be submitted on the environmental impact, carrying out routine inspections to verify that the activity does not affect the environment. The ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council) focuses its activity on environmental sustainability through efficient mechanisms apropos social responsibility. Therefore, it is NOT true that the breeding of Pangasius poses any risk to the environment.
In Vietnam, positive results are being obtained with the development of the SUPA project (Sustainable Pangasius Supply Chain), which allocates its resources to improve information on the process, developing new products and promoting an improved public image for the species.
At all times it can be guaranteed that from the source to its consumption it is a product that is properly controlled and certified at all stages in the production process. It is safe, and consumption does not entail any risk.
