When it comes to choosing catfish, consumers often turn to the United States for their supply. In fact, Mississippi is ranked #1 nationally in the production of catfish with a $252 million value of production in 2023. So odds are if you've enjoyed delicious catfish—it's Mississippi-raised!

U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish is renowned for its consistent quality and superior taste. This is largely due to the advanced aquaculture practices employed by American farmers. These practices ensure that the catfish are raised in clean, carefully monitored environments, resulting in fish that are tender, mild-flavored, and free of off-flavors.

Food safety is paramount, and the U.S. has some of the strictest regulations in the world when it comes to aquaculture. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) enforce rigorous standards for water quality, feed, and the overall health of the fish. Regular inspections and stringent testing ensure that our catfish are free from contaminants and antibiotics, providing peace of mind for consumers.

U.S. catfish farmers are leaders in innovative, sustainable aquaculture practices such as recirculating water systems and natural filtration processes. These methods produce a superior product and keep the environment clean.

By choosing U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish, consumers are supporting American farmers and contributing to local economies. The catfish industry is a significant source of employment in several states, particularly in the South. Buying domestic catfish helps sustain these jobs and promotes economic growth in rural communities.

One of the key advantages of U.S. catfish is the traceability and transparency of its production. From hatchery to table, the entire process is well-documented and traceable. This transparency allows consumers to know exactly where their fish comes from and under what conditions it was raised, fostering trust and confidence in the product.

American catfish is often raised on a diet that is specially formulated to enhance its nutritional profile. Rich in protein, low in fat, and high in essential vitamins and minerals, our catfish are a healthy choice for consumers looking to maintain a balanced diet. The controlled feed also ensures that the fish are not exposed to harmful substances that can affect their nutritional value.

By choosing U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish, you’re not only making a delicious and nutritious choice but also supporting responsible farming practices and local economies. It’s a decision you can feel good about, every time.

MDAC DIVISION SPOTLIGHT

Consumer Protection Division

Country of Origin Labeling Inspections

Director: Gene Robertson

To ensure that Mississippians and visitors to the great state of Mississippi receive the fresh, quality, wholesome product they look forward to enjoying when biting into a delicious piece of catfish, the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce Consumer Protection Division conducts Country Of Origin Labeling (COOL) inspections. COOL inspections are when inspectors visit establishments such as grocery stores and restaurants to check product and packaging labels on all fish labeled as “catfish” or “fish products,” which is defined as a fish species similar to catfish.

The law requires that retailers and restaurants identify the country of origin for both catfish and fish products similar to catfish. It is essential to ensure that not only catfish, but shrimp, and crawfish being promoted as U.S. products are not being discreetly replaced with foreign substitutes. It is unlawful to use the term “catfish” as a common name in advertising, distributing or labeling, except for those fish within the definition of “catfish.” Persons found in violation of the Mississippi Catfish Marketing Law are subject to administrative penalties and or civil or criminal penalties.

For more information about the Mississippi Catfish Marketing Law, contact the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce, Consumer Protection Division, at 601-359-1148.

MDAC STAFF SPOTLIGHTS

Commissioner Gipson Speaks at Neshoba County Fair

Commissioner Andy Gipson spoke to an enthusiastic crowd at the Neshoba County Fair on August 1, 2024, in Philadelphia, MS. Afterward, he and his wife Leslie Gipson joined MDAC staff to promote the Genuine MS® program and the Tasty Side of Agriculture.

Mississippi Farmers Market Hosted Ag Education Back to School Event

Pictured (L-R): Jenna Fullington, Peyton Pierce, Laynie Dodson, and Nick Hall.

The Mississippi Farmers Market hosted its Back to School event July 27 to promote work in agriculture. Event attendees had the opportunity to meet representatives from Mississippi agricultural organizations such as the Mississippi Department of Agriculture & Commerce internship program, Mississippi Wild Hog Control Program Youth Trapping Corp, Future Farmers of America (FFA), and the Mississippi Agriculture Youth Council. Shoppers also enjoyed the atmosphere of the Mississippi Farmers Market with fresh produce and local goods readily available.

Intern with MDAC: Internship Interest Form

To apply for the WHCP Youth Trapping Corp

Learn more about Mississippi FFA

Keep up with the Ag Youth Council

Produce Safety Staff Tables at Ag & Outdoor Expo

Pictured (L-R): Vivian Purvis, Brandon Thornton, Tammy Allen, and Davis Edwards.

Bureau of Regulatory Services, Produce Safety Division participated in the Mississippi Ag & Outdoor Expo held at the Mississippi Fairgrounds Trade Mart. The event hosted vendors from around the state and country to showcase their agriculture and outdoor items. The Produce Safety team participated in the event to educate producers on the requirements of the new Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), which serves to standardize food safety across the vast diversity of produce farms.

Regulatory Services Gene Robertson Honored for Service as Weights & Measures Chairman

Pictured (L-R): Incoming Chairman, Marc Paquette of Vermont and Gene Robertson.

Also attending, but not pictured, Greg Gholston, Weights and Measures Division and Cherry Eaddy, Petroleum Division.

Bureau of Regulatory Services, Deputy Bureau Director Gene Robertson had the honor of serving as Chairman of the National Conference on Weights & Measures (NCWM) this past year. The conference is a professional not-for-profit association of state and local weights and measures officials, federal agencies, manufacturers, retailers and consumers.

NCWM has developed national weights and measures standards since 1905. The organization brings the right interests together to keep pace with innovative advancements in the marketplace. Robertson passed the gavel at the NCWM’s annual meeting recently held in Cleveland, Ohio.

MDAC Conducts Peanut Inspection Training for the Fruits and Vegetables Division

Peanut Inspection training is underway for the Fruits and Vegetables Division. Because this is seasonal work, inspectors from within the bureau are cross-trained to ensure that peanuts are graded according to USDA standards. Supervisor Vivian Purvis will lead the team in the processes and protocols to ensure that the USDA standards are met and to ensure that farmers receive a fair grade for their product. Two peanut buying points are located in Mississippi, with locations in Prairie and New Augusta.

MDAC Staff Celebrated Mississippi Farmers Market Week

Ag Commissioner Gipson and MDAC staff celebrated Mississippi Farmers Market Week with a Senior Day event at the Mississippi Farmers Market July 11.

Mississippi Egg Marketing Board President Promoted Senior Day Event

The Mississippi Egg Marketing Board participated in recognizing Mississippi Farmers Market Week, July 8-14. Egg Marketing Board President, Ryn Laster, recently appeared on WLBT’s Studio 3 with host Angela Evans, to promote Senior Day, July 11 at the Mississippi Farmers Market in Jackson. Laster demonstrated an egg taco, that was prepared for senior adults attending the event.

NOTEWORTHY NEWS

Commissioner Gipson Announced Extra Day Added to 165^th Mississippi State Fair Schedule

All-New Attractions, Entertainment Announced in this Year’s Lineup

Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson announced the 165th Mississippi State Fair will include an extra day of fun this year. The 2024 Mississippi State Fair is now scheduled to run Thursday, October 3, through Monday, October 14, at the Mississippi State Fairgrounds in Jackson.

“The family fun will continue for an extra day at this year’s State Fair,” said Commissioner Gipson. “We’re excited to announce the schedule will include Columbus Day, which falls on Monday, October 14. So, all the students and parents off for the holiday will have the opportunity to enjoy another day of fair fun. The upcoming 12-day event will feature food, games, rides, vendors and all-new attractions across the expansive 105-acre fairgrounds. I invite everyone to purchase their tickets to the annual Mississippi State Fair now by visiting our website at www.msstatefair.com.”

This year, the Mississippi State Fair is adding the Agri-Puppets and Tumbleweed Crossing attractions inside Frontier Village. The educational and entertaining puppet show, Agri-Puppets, tells a unique story focusing on agriculture and animals. The Tumbleweed Crossing show will take spectators back in time to the Wild West. In addition, an all-new Barnyard exhibit will be housed inside Barn 6 and will feature 4-H and FFA farm animals, star exhibitors and hands-on learning experiences.

Ag Commissioner Andy Gipson Announced August 2024 Wild Hog Control Program

Application Period

Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson announced that the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce (MDAC) began accepting a new round of applications for its Wild Hog Control Program (WHCP) August 1. The application period will close on Thursday, August 15. All Mississippi counties are eligible for the application period.

Through the WHCP, MDAC provides “smart” wild hog traps to landowners and managers for the control of wild hogs on private agricultural and forestry lands in Mississippi. MDAC provides the training necessary to use the “smart” traps and technical guidance regarding the most effective methods to trap and control wild hogs on private lands.

“Wild hogs are a huge threat to our farms and natural resources across the state,” said Commissioner Gipson. “MDAC’s Wild Hog Control Program staff are dedicated to assisting farmers and private land managers in the battle against these destructive animals. The most effective trapping equipment is used in our trap loan program, and the program has resulted in great success.”

Applications must be completed and submitted online at www.mdac.ms.gov/whcp. Submitted applications will be evaluated based on the number of acres available for trapping, historical agricultural losses caused by wild hogs on the property and current trapping efforts on the property. A cooperative application is encouraged for small acreage (i.e., adjoining land managers of small parcels should work together to submit one application). Traps will be available for one-month intervals, dependent upon use and success. One trap per 500 acres is recommended, depending on landscape and land use.

Visit www.mdac.ms.gov/whcp for program guidelines, application and additional information. Submit questions regarding the WHCP to Chris McDonald at chris@mdac.ms.gov.

Mississippi State University International Institute Representatives Visited the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce

Mississippi State University International Institute representatives visited the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce on July 29. Representatives from Niger, Nigeria, Mozambique and Ghana engaged in discussions about Mississippi's unique and diverse agriculture industry.

Commissioner Andy Gipson Announced Organic Certification Cost-Share Program

Commissioner Andy Gipson announced that the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce (MDAC) is offering a cost-share program for Mississippi organic producers and handlers receiving certification or continuation of certification by a United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) accredited certifying agent.

Funding is available for those that received the certification between October 1, 2023, and September 30, 2024. Individual organic operators are eligible for reimbursement of 75 percent of their certification costs up to a maximum of $750 per certification scope. The National Organic Certification Cost-Share Program currently recognizes the following certification scopes eligible for reimbursement: crops, wild crops, livestock and handling, such as processing.

The following must be provided to MDAC by applicants in order to be eligible for reimbursement: proof of valid certification issued by a USDA accredited certifying agent, a reimbursement application form, an itemized receipt that identifies allowable costs paid within the qualification period, and an IRS W-9 form. Applicants must be Mississippi organic producers and handlers located within the state. Funds are available on a first-come, first-serve basis until the funds are depleted. Operations may receive one reimbursement per year. The deadline to submit applications is Thursday, October 31, 2024.

For more information about this program or to obtain an application, visit www.mdac.ms.gov/market-development/national-organic-cost-share-program or contact Susan Lawrence at susan@mdac.ms.gov or 601-213-7542.

The Mississippi Agriculture and Livestock Theft Bureau Assisted with Federal Search Warrant & Recovered Stolen Equipment

The Mississippi Agriculture and Livestock Theft Bureau (MALTB) assisted federal agencies in executing a search warrant in Hinds County and recovering a 2018 Kubota tractor valued at $38,000.

The search warrant was a joint effort of operation involving the United States Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General; Drug Enforcement Administration; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; Office of Homeland Security; and Jackson Police Department.

MALTB also assisted in the recovery of a farm truck in Claiborne County, that led to the recovery of a tow truck stolen in Florida valued at $92,000.

During the investigation of the stolen farm truck, a MALTB investigator spotted a grey 2022 Ford F-550 tow truck with no tag traveling along a street in Port Gibson, Claiborne County that matched the description of a stolen out of state vehicle. MALTB initiated a traffic stop assisted by Sheriff Goods. Upon further investigation, it was determined that the truck was a 2022 Ford F-350 tow truck that had been reported stolen by the Santa Rosa County Florida Sheriff’s Office on July 18, 2024.

Mississippi Farmers Market Hosted Senior Day in Recognition of Farmers Market Week

The Mississippi Farmers Market celebrated Mississippi Farmers Market Week with a Senior Day event. Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson addressed visitors and emphasized the importance of local farmers markets for consumers and the community.

Senior Day included complime ntary health scree nings from the Student Health Coalition of Mississippi; egg taco samples from the Mississippi Egg Marketing Board; a cooking demonstration from Mississippi State University Extension’s “The Food Factor” host Natasha Haynes; and an informational booth from Mississippi Adult Protection Services. In addition to these activities, visitors were able to shop a variety of produce, herbs, beef, pork, mushrooms, honey, peanut/pecan brittle, bread, croissants and pastries from local vendors, as well as the Genuine MS® Store, located inside the market.

“Today we are celebrating Mississippi Farmers Market Week right here at the Mississippi Farmers Market in the capital city,” said Commissioner Gipson. “Local farmers markets play an important role in the fabric of today’s society and we are proud to recognize the positive impact that these markets have on our consumers, farmers, communities and economy. The Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce will continue to connect producers and consumers through our various programs and resources, such as the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program, MS Farm Marketplace, Mississippi Market Bulletin, Genuine MS® Program and more.”

Mississippi is home to approximately 70 farmers markets, out of which 32 have been certified through MDAC’s Certified Farmers Market Program. These markets allow consumers to purchase fresh, locally grown foods, while supporting Mississippi farmers. Agriculture is Mississippi’s largest industry, representing 18.6% of all economic activity in the state, and farmers markets are a significant part of that activity.

Governor Tate Reeves signed a proclamation designating July 7 -13, 2024, as Mississippi Farmers Market Week. Mississippi Farmers Market Week was established by MDAC to create awareness of local farmers markets and recognize the significant contribution of farmers markets to local communities.

Find a complete list of Mississippi’s farmers markets and learn more about MDAC’s Certified Farmers Market Program at www.msfarmersmarket.com. Follow the Mississippi Farmers Market on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for additional information and updates on future market events.

Opinion Column: Legislature Must Slam Door Shut on Foreign Land Ownership

By: Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson

Recently, I attended the Republican National Committee with our Mississippi delegation. On Wednesday night, President Donald J. Trump’s former press secretary and current Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders spoke to the energetic crowd. The floor was electrified by her powerful speech supporting the America First agenda. To roaring applause, Governor Sanders reminded Americans that Arkansas was the first and only state to kick China off Arkansas farmland and out of the State. She is right, but with legislative support Mississippi could be next.

During the 2024 Legislative Session, our Mississippi Legislature missed a great opportunity to follow Arkansas’ lead. Rather than banning foreign countries including our enemies from buying up Mississippi farms, the Legislature opened the door even wider to foreign control by passing the “Mississippi Foreign Land Ownership Act.”

Prior to the passage of the 2024 Act, Mississippi law generally prohibited the ownership of Mississippi land by any “nonresident alien,” a phrase that had never been precisely defined by the Legislature in law. The old law, coupled with the lack of a clear enforcement mechanism left a gaping loophole for decades, allowing numerous foreign countries such as the Netherlands, Canada, and many other foreign interests to purchase vast tracts of Mississippi farmland. Even our enemy China was able to grab a small chunk of Mississippi. In fact, according to the most recent USDA report issued last December, foreign countries and/or foreign-controlled entities currently control nearly 1 million acres of Mississippi agricultural and forest lands.

In 2023, the Mississippi Foreign Purchase of Farmland Study Committee called on the Legislature to create a clear enforcement mechanism within the law to stop foreign interests including our adversaries from continuing to buy up Mississippi’s most valuable asset, our farmland.

Unfortunately, effective July 1, 2024, the new law passed by the Mississippi Legislature will open the door even wider for foreign interests including our enemies to acquire interests in Mississippi farmland. Perhaps unintentionally, Senate Bill 2519 actually eliminated the broad prohibition of nonresident ownership.

MALTB Recovered Stolen Hay Equipment in Copiah County

The Mississippi Agricultural & Livestock Theft Bureau (MALTB) recovered a hay baler and hay cutter in Copiah County that was reported stolen in Lincoln County.

On June 22, a 435 John Deere hay baler and a Kuhn hay cutter were reported stolen to the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office. A Kubota five-wheel hay rake was reported stolen to the Copiah County Sheriff’s Office that same day. On June 25, the MALTB received a report of the stolen equipment and began their investigation. MALTB believes the two cases are related.

During the investigation, information surfaced that led investigators to Copiah County. The Mississippi Agriculture and Livestock Theft Bureau, along with Copiah County Sheriff’s Office, recovered the stolen hay baler and hay cutter in a rural part of Copiah County on June 27.

Several suspects have been identified. One suspect was arrested by the Crystal Springs Police Department on an outstanding arrest warrant unrelated to this case. This case is an open and ongoing investigation with more arrests to follow.

MALTB Director Dean Barnard would like to commend the MALTB investigators in the case for their continued effort in the recovery of stolen farm equipment. These cases are a joint effort with Copiah County Sherriff’s Office, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office and the Crystal Springs Police Department helping to locate one of the suspects.

The Mississippi Agriculture and Livestock Theft Bureau, the law enforcement division of the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce, enforces state laws pertaining to the theft of cattle, horses, swine, poultry, fish, farm equipment, chemicals, timber and all other farm or agriculture-related crimes. Visit http://msagtheft.org/ to learn more about the MALTB. To report or provide information regarding an agricultural crime, call (800) 678-2660.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Mississippi Farmers Market Hosts Mississippi Heat Pepper Event

Join the Mississippi Farmers Market (MFM) for a celebration of all things hot, specifically peppers and pepper products including pepper jelly, hot honey, salsas, hot sauce and more from Mississippi! Mississippi Heat will take place August 17, 2024, 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. at 929 High Street in Jackson, MS. Additionally, MFM vendor Hot Tamale Heaven will be on site with their food truck.