Ever wonder if the seafood on your plate is what you ordered?
In the seafood industry, traceability is essential. It tracks seafood from its origin through farming, production, and distribution, ensuring sustainability and safety. Consumers can confidently verify they’re buying high-quality seafood.
Traceability in the seafood supply chain is crucial for ensuring transparency and sustainability.
According to research conducted by Oceana in 2015, 30% of seafood served in Brussels restaurants did not match the species ordered by consumers . A Guardian Seascape analysis revealed a staggering 36% mislabelling rate, exposing widespread seafood fraud globally. In response to issues such as these, the European Union adopted new traceability measures in January 2024 after five years of negotiations. Starting in 2026, these measures will require all import documents to be provided in digital form, enhancing the traceability and integrity of seafood products.
In the U.S., the FDA has recognized the critical importance of traceability, establishing recordkeeping requirements under the Food Traceability Final Rule. On January 20, 2026, new rules linked to FSMA Section 204 will come into effect, and the seafood industry—from the top to the bottom of the supply chain—will need to be ready for it. This rule is designed to facilitate quicker identification and removal of potentially contaminated food from the market, significantly enhancing food safety and reducing foodborne illnesses.
Here are five compelling reasons why traceability is so important in the seafood industry.
- Streamline food safety
Food safety is paramount in any sector, but it is particularly critical in the seafood industry due to the perishable nature of seafood products. Traceability systems allow for the monitoring of seafood at every stage of the supply chain, from capture or harvest to processing, distribution, and retail. This detailed tracking enables rapid identification and management of potential safety hazards, such as contamination with pathogens or harmful chemicals. When a safety issue arises, having a robust traceability system in place means that affected products can be quickly identified and removed from the market, protecting consumers from potential health risks.
- Combatting illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing
IUU fishing is a major problem that threatens marine ecosystems and undermines legitimate fishing operations. Traceability systems help combat IUU fishing by providing verifiable documentation of the origin and journey of seafood products. This documentation is essential for proving that seafood has been legally and sustainably harvested. By ensuring that only legally caught seafood enters the market, traceability systems help to preserve fish stocks, protect marine biodiversity, and support the livelihoods of fishermen who adhere to regulations.
- Promoting sustainable practices
Sustainability is a critical concern in the seafood industry, where overfishing and environmental degradation are significant issues. Traceability enables consumers and businesses to verify that seafood products are sourced from fisheries and farms that employ sustainable practices. Certifications and labels such as the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) rely on traceability to ensure compliance with their standards. By supporting traceable seafood, consumers and retailers can make informed choices that promote sustainability and help preserve ocean resources for future generations.
- Building consumer trust
In today’s market, consumers are increasingly concerned about the origins and quality of their food. Traceability systems provide transparency that builds trust between the seafood industry and consumers. When consumers can access information about where and how their seafood was caught or farmed, they are more likely to trust the product and the brand. This transparency not only enhances consumer confidence but also adds value to seafood products, as traceable seafood can command a premium price due to its verified quality and ethical sourcing.
- Balancing supply chain efficiency
Traceability improves supply chain efficiency by providing real-time data on the movement and status of seafood products. This information allows for better inventory management, reduces the risk of spoilage and waste, and ensures that products reach their destination in optimal condition. For seafood businesses, this means reduced costs and improved profitability. Additionally, traceability systems facilitate compliance with regulatory requirements, streamlining audits and inspections, and reducing the administrative burden on businesses.
Traceability is the future of seafood
Traceability is a cornerstone of the modern seafood industry, offering critical benefits that span food safety, environmental sustainability, consumer trust, and supply chain efficiency. By adopting robust traceability systems, the seafood industry can not only protect public health and the environment but also enhance its overall resilience and competitiveness in a global market that increasingly values transparency and accountability. As consumers become more aware of the importance of traceability, the demand for traceable seafood is likely to grow, driving further advancements and innovations in this essential area.
