FDA Issues RFI on Changing Market Name for Certain Rockfish to ‘Snapper’
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is issuing a Request for Information on a potential update to the acceptable market name for eighteen species of Sebastes, commonly known as rockfish.
In November 2025, Public Law 119-37 was enacted, directing FDA to engage with stakeholders regarding a potential name change for specific Sebastes species. FDA maintains the Seafood List, a guide for the food industry on acceptable market names for seafood sold in interstate commerce, to ensure that labeling is accurate.
Currently, the acceptable market name for the genus Sebastes is "rockfish." However, FDA has received inquiries from industry stakeholders requesting that the name be changed to "snapper." FDA has identified several critical issues for consideration before any changes are made to the acceptable market name for these rockfish species. These include issues related to scientific classification, food safety and hazard identification, and labeling and allergen concerns.
FDA is seeking input from all interested parties, including industry, consumer groups, and state regulatory agencies. Through the RFI, the agency is posing a series of questions to gather data on the potential impacts of a name change.
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