https://www.chewy.com/education/fish/general/avoid-dyed-or-painted-fish
Several types of fish on the market have been artificially colored using one of four main methods. The first technique involved injecting dye beneath the skin, typically used on transparent species, leading to the creation of the so called "painted glassfish."
Another method involves soaking fish in dye. This technique is often used to add color to albino fish or to intensify the natural coloration of other species, making them appear more vibrant and appealing.
A more recent method involves tattooing the fish. Unlike paint injection, this technique uses a tattoo gun to apply dye into the layers of the fish’s skin, rather than injecting it beneath the surface with a needle.
The last technique includes keeping fishes in water containing large amounts of artificial hormones. The practice of dyeing or what some may call - juicing - the fish is problematic for a number of reasons as it greatly damages the fish and many of them simply perish.
Educating customers is essential so they can make informed and compassionate choices. A responsible fish store should clearly label dyed fish or, at the very least, inform buyers about the artificial coloring. These practices represent a form of animal cruelty and should be addressed openly.
Chewy editorial team will delve deeper into these artificial coloring practices to shed light on why this type of practice are both cruel and inhumane. We hope that by raising awareness, these harmful cosmetic procedures - often leading to pain, infection, and early death - will eventually be banned as no fish should have to suffer for the sake of appearance.
