The Australian Consumers Association (ACA) has warned that many consumers are being misled about the type of fish they are buying because of incorrect labelling.

ACA food policy officer Clare Hughes said that cheaper fish was sometimes being passed off as a more expensive variety.

“Barramundi is increasing in popularity both in Australia and also overseas and unfortunately we aren’t able to meet the demand for barramundi,” Hughes was quoted by ABC News as saying.

“In some cases we’re seeing that it’s being substituted with nile perch.

“Nile perch is unfortunately half the price of barramundi but consumers think they are buying barramundi and paying the barramundi price, but actually getting the cheaper substitute.”