Q - What information and guidance is there for manufacturars of Fishery Products?
A - Fish and shellfish are imported in the fresh, frozen, pickled, canned, salted, dried, or smoked conditions. The raw materials are by nature tremendously perishable and must be handled rapidly under adequate refrigeration or ice if decomposition is to be avoided. The conditions of handling are also likely to result in contamination unless particular safeguards are imposed. A lot of fishery products have been detained because of decomposition and filth.
Sometimes preservatives or other additives, including drugs used for aquaculture, have been used for various reasons in fishery products. Any additive used must be one accepted by United States of America Food and Drug Administration as safe and must be declared on the label.
Chemical contamination of lakes, rivers, and the oceans has been found to concentrate in certain species of fish. Excessive residues of pesticides, mercury, and other heavy metals are prohibited. Naturally occurring marine toxins also concentrate in some species, especially shellfish. Products adulterated with excessive levels of these toxins will be refused entry into this country.
* For information purposes only. Please check with the United States of America Food and Drug Administration for up to date regulations and information Food Import / Export Regulations Advice Guidance and Information Food Import / Export Regulations Advice Guidance and Information |
