Identification of Canned Salmon Species by Scale Characteristics

Abstract

A modified method and key for the identification of canned salmon species have been subjected to an additional collaborative study. Of 54 samples examined, 11 collaborators accurately identified 10 of 10 samples (100%) of sockeye, 11 of 11 samples (100%) of chum, 11 of 11 samples (100%) of pink, 11 of 11 samples (100%) of coho, and 11 of 11 samples (100%) of chinook. Nine of 11 collaborators were able to find in all samples usable scales with intact clear areas for mounting and identification. Two of the 11 had a minor problem. The improved, modified method and key have been adopted as official first action for the identification of the sockeye, chum, pink, coho, and chinook salmon species to replace method 18.089.