Charleston Restaurants Accused of Selling Frozen Import Shrimp as 'Fresh Local' — Class Action Filed

The Incident

On June 19, 2025, news broke that several Charleston restaurants are accused of falsely advertising imported frozen shrimp as fresh, local South Carolina shrimp. Investigators uncovered that these establishments were misleading customers about the origin and quality of their seafood, prompting a class action lawsuit.

The allegations, if proven true, represent a significant breach of consumer trust in a region known for its vibrant food scene and reliance on local ingredients. This case has sparked outrage among Charleston residents and visitors alike, many of whom value transparency in the farm-to-table movement that the Lowcountry prides itself on.

What South Carolina Law Says

Under South Carolina law, deceptive advertising practices are prohibited by the South Carolina Unfair Trade Practices Act (SCUTPA), codified in SC Code § 39-5-10 and subsequent sections. SCUTPA makes it unlawful for businesses to engage in unfair or deceptive acts or practices in the conduct of trade or commerce.

Specifically, labeling imported frozen shrimp as "fresh local" may constitute a violation of SC Code § 39-5-20, which addresses false advertising and misrepresentation. Additionally, consumers who suffer financial losses due to such practices may pursue damages, including potential treble damages, under SC Code § 39-5-140. This statute also allows for class action remedies, making it a powerful tool for addressing widespread consumer fraud.

Your Rights and Options

If you purchased shrimp from one of the implicated restaurants believing it to be fresh and locally sourced, you may have grounds to join the class action lawsuit. Class actions allow individuals to pool their claims together, making it easier to hold businesses accountable for deceptive practices.

To protect your rights, gather any receipts, menus, or advertisements that support your claim. These documents can serve as evidence that you were misled. Additionally, consult with an experienced consumer fraud attorney to ensure your interests are represented in the class action proceedings.

South Carolina law empowers consumers to seek not only compensation for their losses but also punitive damages in cases of willful deception. This case could set a precedent for holding businesses accountable for misrepresentation in the food industry.

What I Look For When Evaluating These Cases

When evaluating consumer fraud cases, I focus on the strength of the evidence. Clear documentation, such as receipts, advertisements, or menus, is crucial in proving that a business engaged in deceptive practices. Additionally, I look for patterns of misconduct that demonstrate the scope of the fraud.

A strong case also requires showing that consumers relied on the false claims and suffered financial losses as a result. The more widespread the deception, the stronger the class action becomes.

How Insurance Companies Will Fight Back

Insurance companies representing these restaurants will likely argue that the labeling was unintentional or that consumers did not suffer measurable harm. They may also attempt to dispute the scope of the fraud, claiming it was limited to isolated incidents rather than systemic misconduct.

Defense tactics often include requesting extensive discovery to delay proceedings or attempting to settle for minimal amounts to avoid public scrutiny. However, a well-prepared legal team can counter these strategies effectively.

Related Practice Areas at Traywick Law Offices

At Traywick Law Offices, we handle cases involving consumer fraud, including false advertising and deceptive business practices. Learn more about our work as a Charleston Consumer Fraud Attorney or explore related areas like Premises Liability and Credit Report Disputes.

My Final Thoughts

As a Charleston attorney, I take pride in advocating for consumers who have been deceived by unfair business practices. This case highlights the importance of holding businesses accountable for their actions, especially in a community that values honesty and local integrity. If you believe you’ve been affected, I encourage you to stand up for your rights and seek justice.