CITES, Traceability and Responsible Sourcing
Caviar Julian works exclusively with trusted aquaculture partners to source responsibly farmed sturgeon roe from established producers in Europe and Asia. Alongside quality and flavour, equal weight is given to traceability, legality, and sustainability. CITES regulation underpins that assurance.
What is CITES?
CITES stands for the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. Established in 1975, it is an international agreement designed to ensure that trade in certain species does not threaten their survival.
Sturgeon were historically overfished, placing several species under serious pressure. Today, all lawful international trade in caviar is strictly regulated under CITES. This ensures that caviar entering the United Kingdom market is controlled, documented, and fully traceable.
What This Means for You
Every tin of caviar supplied through Caviar Julian carries a CITES label. This provides clear and verifiable information about:
Species — The exact sturgeon species from which the caviar originates.
Source — Confirmation that the product is farmed. International trade in wild sturgeon caviar is not permitted.
Country of Origin — Where the sturgeon was raised.
Year of Harvest — When the caviar was produced.
Registered Packing Facility — Identification of the approved processor.
Permit or Registration Number — A reference allowing the product to be tracked throughout the supply chain.
This system ensures that the caviar you purchase is lawful, responsibly farmed, and properly documented.
Oversight and Standards
Caviar Julian selects suppliers based on welfare standards, water quality management, disciplined cold chain handling, and regulatory compliance. Only partners operating within recognised international frameworks are considered.
Where appropriate, suppliers carry out authenticity verification procedures, including DNA testing, to confirm species accuracy.
The aim is simple: clarity rather than complexity, reassurance rather than marketing.
Why It Matters
CITES labelling is not decorative. It is a safeguard.
It protects endangered species, supports responsible aquaculture, and ensures that customers purchasing caviar in the United Kingdom can do so with confidence.
If you would like guidance on how to read a CITES label or understand what the codes mean on your tin, you are welcome to ask.