Innovative Technological Soluations For Sea Fisheries Control And Enforcement - Traceability

Defra and the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) would like to better understand the practicalities of using innovative technologies to improve traceability for fish and fish products through all stages of production. A desk-based exercise is required to collate and assess the work ongoing within governments (including EU or other third countries) as well as in the private and charity sectors with regard to traceability systems which are relevant to fisheries traceability.

The challenges to fisheries control and enforcement exist throughout the whole supply chain from catch to plate. As consumers become more concerned about the sustainability of our oceans and fisheries, there is a drive to assure the provenance of fish for sale. Traceability is a key means by which to demonstrate whether a fish product is responsibly and sustainably sourced, allowing it to be tracked through its journey, for example from when the fish is caught or harvested to the first point of sale, through processing and through the retail stage to the customer in line with current food law.

Developments in traceability technologies may be able to enhance current systems in the UK achieving full traceability from fish catch to plate. This will help to deliver additional benefits including increased consumer confidence in the provenance of fish and fish products. Traceability technology will also enable fishers to keep their own records of traceable information which fishers could make available to Fisheries Authorities on request; or could be passed on throughout the supply chain, e.g. auction markets, processors, retailers etc. Such information in the hands of fisher enhances the chances of more producers gaining industry accreditation, e.g. MCS listing and so boost their marketability.

This project will explore current technologies within the UK and other countries (including the EU and internationally) and assess their applicability for fish traceability from catch to plate, in line with requirements for other food products. We would like to know what best practices there are and if they are transferable to the UK fishing industry. What technologies or processes are likely to help the UK achieve the highest standards of traceability and compliance? What technology is available to support this? What technology developments are likely to be helpful? We would also like recommendations as to what fisheries areas are most suitable for potential trials of promising technologies or systems.