(Kiowa County Press)Dear EarthTalk : What is “shrimp fraud?” Why is it bad for the environment and local economies and how are we combating it? Image © iStock - IBorisoffShrimp fraud takes various forms, including species substitution, where lower-quality or cheaper shrimp species are sold as expensive varieties. When producers misrepresent shrimp harvesting, they drive overfishing, depleting wild shrimp populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Organizations and consumers have increased efforts to combat shrimp fraud in recent years. Consumers can fight shrimp fraud by making informed purchases and choosing trusted sources like certified sustainable fisheries.

Source: The Guardian February 22, 2026 00:07 UTC