Mercadona Clarifies Anchovy Sourcing and Labeling Practices
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Mercadona Clarifies Anchovy Sourcing and Labeling Practices
- Mercadona's anchovies are packed in a facility in Morocco by their supplier, Francisco Gil Comes, leading to "Morocco" on the packaging due to labeling regulations.
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The company sources anchovies from various regions, including the Cantabrian Sea, Morocco, and the Mediterranean, with the specific fishing area indicated by an FAO zone number on the tin’s batch code.
Mercadona has clarified the origin of its anchovy products, addressing why “Morocco” appears on the packaging. The company states that its anchovies are packed in a plant located in Morocco, which belongs to its supplier, Francisco Gil Comes, based in Vinaròs, Castellón. According to labeling regulations, the place of packing must be stated on the product, regardless of where the raw material was sourced, which explains the “Made in Morocco” indication.
Mercadona utilizes anchovies from diverse fishing grounds, including the Cantabrian Sea, Morocco, and the Mediterranean, adapting its sourcing based on fishing capacity and seasonal availability. Consumers can identify the specific fishing area for each product by checking the FAO zone number provided on the tin’s batch code.
For its “Cantabrian” labeled anchovies, the raw material is expected to come from catches in the Cantabrian Sea. However, for the standard range without this specific denomination, the origin can extend to the Mediterranean, Morocco, or other fishing areas. Mercadona emphasizes its commitment to sustainable fishing practices and traceability from catch to sale, working with suppliers to ensure compliance with legal requirements and respect for measures such as minimum sizes and fishing moratoriums. The company also prioritizes products and raw materials of Spanish origin, with over 85% of its selection being nationally sourced when viable.