PEN04 - Aquaculture knowledge for everyday decisions

KnowYourFish – Bringing aquaculture knowledge to everyday decisions. Despite the rapid growth of aquaculture, most consumers still lack access to clear and reliable information about the fish they consume, including its origin, nutritional value, and production conditions. At the point of purchase, whether in a supermarket or a restaurant, decisions are often made quickly and based on limited information, usually reduced to price and appearance. This lack of transparency contributes to consumer distrust, misconceptions, and poorly informed choices. There is therefore a clear need for digital solutions that provide relevant information in an immediate, accessible, and easy-to-understand way. KnowYourFish is a mobile application designed to give consumers real-time access to key information about aquaculture products at the exact moment of purchase or consumption. By scanning a QR code or barcode, users can instantly access clear and organized information on: Product origin (production location and farming system), Nutritional profile (protein, lipids, omega-3 content), Sustainability indicators, and Production practices. Objectives: Increase transparency across the aquaculture value chain; provide accessible nutritional information to support informed choices; improve consumer knowledge and awareness of aquaculture products; strengthen trust in aquaculture as a sustainable food source. Key Features: Instant access to information by QR code or barcode scanning available in supermarkets and restaurant menus; simplified visualization with nutritional and origin data presented through intuitive indicators (e.g., high in protein, source of omega-3); sustainability indicators (clear summaries of environmental impact and responsible production practices); AI-assisted storytelling since the app includes a storytelling module that visually and briefly explains the product’s journey (from farm to plate) supported by AI-generated text and visual elements, it translates technical production processes into accessible, engaging content without compromising scientific accuracy. Target Users: Consumers in retail settings (markets and supermarkets), consumers in restaurants and food service environments, and people interested in healthy and sustainable food choices. Expected Impact: Better decision-making once the consumers gain access to relevant information at the critical moment of choice; greater transparency and trust because this app improves public perception and confidence in the aquaculture sector; improved food literacy, since it helps consumers better understand nutritional value and product origin; product value enhancement because it highlights the often-overlooked benefits and quality attributes of aquaculture products. Conclusion: KnowYourFish addresses a clear challenge: the lack of accessible information about aquaculture products at the moment of decision. By combining instant data access, simplified visualization, and AI-assisted storytelling, the app connects consumers to the origin of their food and supports more informed, confident choices. It is a practical, user-centered solution designed for real-world consumption contexts, with strong potential for application in both food retail and the restaurant sector.

A mobile application

Aquaculture Specialist, Marine biologist, Mobile app developer, AI specialist, Environmental footprint specialist, Nutrition specialist.