Basa/Pangasius/Swai
Basa, Pangasius and Swai are used interchangeably when referring to two species of farmed river catfish from Asia. Catfish farmed in the U.S. is considered a "Best Choice," as it's farmed in a more ecologically responsible manner.
Consumer Note
Imported river catfish from Asia is commonly sold in the U.S. simply as "catfish." Check country-of-origin labels to be sure you know where your catfish is from.
Summary
Commercial farming of river catfish - known as Basa, Pangasius and Swai - in southeast Asia has increased rapidly in recent years. River catfish has a strong potential to be a sustainable aquaculture species, but there are conservation concerns with the current practice of open cage aquaculture combined with little or no management of these fish farming operations in Asia.
Recipe Alternatives
U.S. farmed catfish is a "Best Choice."
Scientific Reports About Our Ratings
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