Major fish chains still showing RSPCA-approved logo

Huon Aquaculture lost RSPCA accreditation more than three months ago, yet at least one major sushi chain, and various fishmongers are still showing the the RSPCA-approved logo in their advertising, according to a report in the Saturday Paper 5-11 July 2025.

An RSPCA spokesperson said that Huon is responsible for removing signage from all products sold after 20 March when accreditation was withdrawn. Their standard procedure is to work with a producer for a reasonable period after withdrawal, and that this was still under way with Huon. They did not define 'reasonable period', claiming commercial confidentiality.

Former head of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission Alan Fels is reported as saying that the RSPCA's timeframe was immaterial, and that the signs could well be in breach of the Australian Competition and Consumer Act.

None of Tasmania's three salmon producers now meet the RSPCA's standards including stocking densities, fish handling and biofouling.

• Read the extensive report in the Saturday Paper