The European fishing commissioner is lobbying for the peelable labels on fish products to feature clearer information about their origin.

According to the Grocer, Maria Damanaki wants both fresh and canned fish to have a sticker detailing exactly where they were caught, rather than offering vague locations such as 'south-east Atlantic' as is the case at present.

Speaking at a recent Group of the European People's Party hearing, she said consumers need guidance about how fresh fish is and whether it was caught in a responsible way.

"We, on our end, have the responsibility to guarantee transparent and accurate labelling, both legal and voluntary, just as we have the responsibility to safeguard wild resources from over-exploitation," she added.

Ms Damanaki commented that she does not intend to back down until she succeeds in getting clearer labelling passed.

Earlier this month, the European Parliament passed new legislation that is likely to see the peelable labels on pork, lamb and poultry begin to feature a country of origin.

Denny Bros Ltd, 18 July 2011