CAVIAR LABELLING
Key elements of caviar label
- Species Code : Each type of sturgeon is identified by a unique alphanumeric code. For example, "HUS" refers to Beluga, while "GUE" identifies Oscetra. This code is essential for determining the species from which the caviar originates.
- Origin of Caviar : The origin of caviar is indicated by a letter that distinguishes wild caviar (W) from farmed caviar (C). Since fishing for wild sturgeon has been prohibited since 1998, all legal caviar on the market must come from certified farms.
- Country of Origin : The label includes the abbreviation of the country where the caviar was produced or packaged, such as "IT" for Italy, "RU" for Russia, and so on. It's important to note that, in some cases, caviar may be packaged in a country other than the fish's country of origin, which may affect the country of origin indication on the label.
- Year of Production : This information indicates the year the eggs were harvested, allowing consumers to assess the freshness of the product.
- Plant Code and Batch Identification : These codes provide information on the specific production location and production batch, essential for product traceability.