Fraudulent sales of 'Kalloni sardines' reported in Greece before fishing season begins

The Agricultural and Fishing Association of Western Lesvos, "Makar," has issued a complaint regarding the fraudulent sale of "Kalloni sardines." The association discovered that some fishmongers are marketing sardines as the premium "Kalloni" variety, despite the official fishing season for these sardines not yet having commenced.

Panagiotis Nanidis, the association's president, stated that an investigation confirmed no vessels have begun fishing for these sardines. The fish have not yet reached the optimal size for sale, yet they are already being offered in some establishments as "Kalloni sardines." During an inspection, one fishmonger was found to have issued an invoice listing "Kalloni sardines" that did not originate from the Kalloni Gulf.

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Our goal is to inform the consumer public and prevent them from being deceived.

"Our goal is to inform the consumer public and prevent them from being deceived," Nanidis explained. He highlighted that authentic Kalloni sardines are sold at a higher price than common sardines, although common sardines are also an excellent catch. The fishing of Kalloni sardines, which occurs exclusively in the Kalloni Gulf, is anticipated to start in late June, at which point an official announcement will be made to consumers.

Nanidis also noted that instances of "Kalloni sardines" being sold fraudulently have been observed outside of Lesvos in the past. This specific type of sardine is a limited catch, primarily consumed locally on the island. The association's efforts aim to protect the reputation of this regional specialty and ensure consumers receive the genuine product.

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The authentic Kalloni sardine is sold more expensively than the common sardine, which, however, is also an excellent catch.