When it comes to fresh seafood, there’s nothing quite like the flavor and quality of products harvested right here on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. From savory blue crabs to premium finfish and the increasingly popular off-bottom oysters, the bounty of the Gulf is not just a culinary treasure—it’s a cornerstone of local culture and economy.
To help protect this rich tradition and ensure consumer confidence, the Mississippi Legislature recently passed House Bill 602. Beginning July 1, 2025, all seafood and crawfish sold in the state—whether in restaurants, markets, food trucks or grocery stores—must be clearly labeled as either “Imported” or “Domestic.” This means you’ll know exactly where your seafood is coming from, empowering you to support Mississippi’s hardworking fishermen, processors and seafood retailers.
The Mississippi Department of Marine Resources (MDMR) and the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce (MDAC) will oversee enforcement of the new labeling law. With consistent labeling and increased transparency, shoppers can make informed choices while helping preserve the Gulf’s seafood heritage.
For those looking to buy fresh, local seafood, consider visiting retailers like Bozo’s Grocery and Grill in Pascagoula, Labama Seafood Market in D’Iberville or Pinchers in Bay St. Louis, or local harbors such as the Pass Christian Harbor and Biloxi Small Craft Harbor, where fishermen often sell directly from their boats. Many coastal farmers’ markets also offer seasonal selections of local catch.
Whether you’re picking up a dozen blue crabs, grilling fresh red snapper, or trying Gulf-grown oysters harvested from off-bottom operations, supporting domestic seafood is now easier—and more important—than ever. As MDMR Director Joe Spraggins says, “This transparency not only supports local fishermen and businesses but also holds establishments accountable.”
By choosing local, you’re investing in food safety, flavor, and the hardworking communities that keep the Gulf’s proud seafood tradition alive.
For a complete list of Gulf Fresh Mississippi Retailers, visit www.msseafood.com/retail.
