Chilean salmon, globally recognized for its quality and flavor, recently achieved a significant milestone with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Known for its rigorous standards, the FDA approved the labeling of Chilean salmon as “healthy,” a designation that promises to increase its visibility and appeal in the North American market.
This represents a major milestone for Chilean salmon. Labeling a product as healthy not only highlights its nutritional benefits but also assures consumers that they are purchasing high-quality salmon, meeting the strictest standards of health, safety, and welfare before consumption.
Loreto Seguel, Executive Director of the Salmon Council—a trade group representing the five leading salmon producers operating in Chile (AquaChile, Australis Seafoods, Cermaq, Mowi, and Salmones Aysén)—emphasizes the importance of this recognition.
This decision strengthens the trust of our primary market for Chilean salmon farming, positively impacting exports and allowing us to further promote and expand into other strategic international markets.
Currently, the United States accounts for 41% of Chilean salmon exports in terms of both volume and value in 2024.
Seguel also highlights the importance of the salmon industry in Chile’s economy. The sector contributes nearly 20% of the GDP in the regions of Los Lagos, Aysén, and Magallanes, generates thousands of jobs, and drives innovative technologies.
Chilean salmon is not just an export product but a driver of development and well-being for families in southern Chile.
A Sustainable Industry and National Pride
One of the industry’s greatest challenges is solidifying its path toward sustainability. In this regard, Chile leads in salmon farming, as it is the protein with the smallest carbon footprint and the lowest use of freshwater.
Today, salmon represents the protein of the future, thanks to its lower environmental impact and its ability to meet the world’s food challenges.
Given this potential, Loreto Seguel calls for a renewed perspective on the significance of Chilean salmon farming, urging the development of a national identity and pride around salmon.
We cannot miss this great opportunity. We must act quickly to give greater prominence to Chilean salmon and its benefits. Examples like the FDA label confirm that internationally respected organizations recognize the prestige of our Chilean salmon. On the domestic front, we must continue promoting the nutritional benefits and positive health impact of salmon. It’s essential to encourage its inclusion in the diets of Chileans.
With this new recognition, Chile is poised to establish itself as a global leader in healthy food solutions. However, achieving this requires a collective effort between the public and private sectors.
We are facing a national crusade where public-private collaboration is key to positioning our industry sustainably and competitively. Chilean salmon is not only a source of national pride but also a shining example of a product synonymous with quality, sustainability, and development. With FDA endorsement, the challenge now is to maximize this opportunity and transform salmon into a true emblem and pride for Chile.
