Texas to implement new labelling law covering imported shrimp

State legislators in Texas recently passed Senate Bill 823 (SB 823), which requires food service suppliers, wholesalers, and distributors in Texas to label whether the shrimp they sell is imported.

The bill, which will go into effect on September 1, 2025, also prohibits restaurants from misrepresenting imported shrimp as domestic, Gulf, American, or Texas-caught.

Restaurants that will be found violating the law could face administrative penalties issued by local or state health departments.

Texas Governor Gregg Abbott signed SB 823 and House Concurrent Resolution 76 (HCR 76) at the end of June. HCR 76 urges the federal government to curb the mass importation of foreign shrimp into the US to protect the Gulf Coast shrimping industry from unfair competition and to protect consumers from substandard shrimp that does not meet US health standards.

Maria Barrera-Jaross, Executive Director of the Texas Shrimp Association (TSA), said she is hopeful that the new legislation will lead to other positive developments in the industry.

"We’re hoping that next time we’ll get some stronger legislation," said Barrera-Jaross. "This is just the beginning; we’re trying to get our big toe in the door."

According to HCR 76, the shrimping industry generates approximately US$850 million in economic value throughout Texas.

“The Texas Shrimp Association was established in 1950," said TSA President Chris Londrie. "Since that time, TSA has been promoting the interests of shrimpers through interaction with our state and federal legislators and the community at large.

"We have a proud legacy and look forward to continuing to work toward finding solutions to the many challenges faced by shrimpers and all who are a part of this important industry."