A BBC North West investigation has revealed that some chip shops in the region are misleading customers by selling inexpensive catfish as traditional fish and chips. The practice, which involves passing off pangasius (a tropical freshwater catfish) as cod or haddock, is driven by the significant cost difference—catfish wholesales at about £3.40 per kilogram, compared to £15 for cod or haddock.
DNA testing at Liverpool John Moores University found that three out of ten sampled chip shops sold catfish without clearly informing customers. Professor Stefano Mariani, who conducted the tests, noted that this level of substitution was unusually high. "Three out of 10 is quite a lot—I don't recall seeing this level of catfish," he said.
The investigation was triggered by a Liverpool chip shop owner who complained about the dishonest practice, stating, "This goes on more than you'd think and it's putting people like me at a disadvantage." The BBC analyzed online reviews where customers questioned the fish species, with comments like "haven't a clue what type of fish it was" and "not cod or haddock, some cheap white fish."
While catfish is safe to eat, consumer groups and industry leaders emphasize the importance of accurate labeling. Andrew Crook, president of the National Federation of Fish Friers, said, "It's fine to eat, but when most people order fish and chips, they expect a marine species like cod or haddock. If you're selling farmed fish like pangasius, it must be advertised as such."
Customers also expressed concerns. Steven Booth, 41, said, "It's incredibly important you are told what you're eating." Linda Williams, 66, added, "If I pay for cod and get something else, it should be what is advertised."
The Chartered Trading Standards Institute advised consumers to ask about the fish species if it's not listed on the menu. Local authorities, which are responsible for enforcement, have been urged to investigate such cases. Salford Council confirmed it had issued a warning to a trader after a similar incident.
As the cost of traditional fish rises, the temptation for some businesses to cut corners may grow. However, experts warn that trust is paramount. "As an industry, we've got to have the trust of the general public," Crook concluded.