Quality of Cod from the Norwegian Coastal Fisheries

Summary

Norges Råfisklag (The Norwegian Fishermen’s Sales Organization) is since 2015 running supervision on fish quality of catches from the Norwegian whitefish fleet. During an overlapping time period Nofima has been documenting fish quality (catch quality index) within this sector; assessing the quality of catches as related to fishing gear and handling procedures. The data considered for evaluating a possible consequence of the fish quality supervision is the following: Nofima’s yearly catch quality index; marketing surveys from France, Germany, Poland and Norway, as well as statistics and evaluation from Norges Råfisklag and Mattilsynet (the Norwegian Food Safety Authority). The results from the yearly catch quality index over the years 2014 through 2017 gives no clear indication on quality improvement throughout this period. From the marketing studies, it is indicated that the quality of fresh landed cod has improved slightly, and focusing quality was considered positive. The Norwegian Fishermen’s Sales Organization experienced an increased interest on quality and thus increased awareness on the consequence of handling practices. The Norwegian Food Safety Authority found and increase in reported regulatory issues during the period. Based on the study it is not possible to conclude that the fish quality supervision has had an unambiguous impact on fish quality. However, the increased focus on fish quality, increased supervision and guidance; and research to improve handling practices should be part of an ongoing effort to improve the quality of the Norwegian fish recourse.