In a move to modernize and adapt to changes in the industry, NOAA Fisheries’ Office of International Affairs, Trade, and Commerce has unveiled revisions to the implementing regulations of the Seafood Inspection Program.
The regulations were last substantially updated in 1971. They have not kept pace with the seafood industry's evolving landscape and the program's expanding role. Recognizing this gap, NOAA aims to streamline processes associated with inspections through a comprehensive modernization effort.
We anticipate these changes will reduce the complexity and time associated with administrative and inspection-related procedures, protocols, and specifications requirements, while retaining the validity of inspection and certification results. This will save time for industry stakeholders.
Proposed Changes
Proposed changes to the existing regulations include:
- Updating regulations and administrative procedures to reflect current operational practices and omit obsolete practices
- Harmonizing inspection, grading, and certification procedures to improve the uniformity of inspection results
- Refining and updating inspection procedures to reduce time and costs associated with their performance as well as improvement based on updated scientific principles
- Moving certain operational policies and procedures from regulatory text to the online Seafood Inspection Program manual
- Expanding the scope of service to cover certain fishery products not for human consumption and other marine ingredients
Comment on the Proposed Amendments
We are asking for comments on the proposed changesto allow for the integration of suggestions from industry experts. This will ensure the revised regulations remain adaptable to emerging technologies and evolving product requirements. This collaborative process underscores our commitment to fostering a robust and responsive regulatory framework in the seafood industry.
Comments and suggestions can be submitted electronically or via email to Steven Wilson, Chief, NOAA Seafood Inspection Program (Steven.Wilson@noaa.gov). Comments must be sumbitted by May 28, 2024.
