Tests of imported seafood in Norway found that all samples met regulations.
The findings come from a report with results on the monitoring program for veterinary border control on aquatic products imported into Norway in 2023 from countries outside the EU and the European Economic Area.
Employees at the Norwegian border inspection posts collected samples. The Institute of Marine Research (IMR) carried out analytical work on behalf of the Norwegian Food Safety Authority (Mattilsynet).
One hundred and fourteen seafood samples were examined using various analytical methods and tests for microorganisms, illegal substances and environmental toxins.
The sampling focused on the hazards associated with different products and took into account import volumes, the nature of the composition of products, results of previous monitoring, the geographical origin of samples and information in the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF ).
Featured results
All 95 samples analyzed for potentially pathogenic and spoilage bacteria met regulations.
Listeria monocytogenes was qualitatively detected in one of the 49 samples analyzed. The quantitative analysis showed that the level was below the detection limit of 10 colony forming units per gram. The sample consisted of breaded cod imported from Great Britain, and as this product was not intended to be consumed without further heat treatment, it was judged to be in compliance with EU rules.
Four samples of fresh eastern oysters from Canada were positive for Vibrio alginolyticus.
However, there are currently no regulations or restrictions regarding bacteria in such foods, and these were considered compliant.
Seven relevant samples were tested for histamine, and all values were below the maximum permitted level. Fish fillets from five samples were tested for anisaki nematodes using the UV pressing method. No parasites were observed in any samples.
A dozen samples were analyzed for cadmium, mercury and lead. Arsenic was also included, although there is no maximum level in seafood. No exceedances of the maximum levels were noted.
Control campaign
Mattilsynet also revealed that the agency will conduct audits of companies producing ready-to-eat seafood between September and December 2024.
The aim is for all recognized companies producing smoked salmon and rakfisk to be inspected.
Inspectors will investigate whether companies have measures in place to ensure products are safe to eat. The emphasis will be on controlling microbiological risks such as Listeria monocytogenes and Clostridium botulinum and undesirable substances such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) that can be produced during smoking.
A campaign for smoked salmon production in 2021/2022 revealed issues with Listeria compliance documentation and shelf life assessments.
Mattilsynet will take samples of smoked salmon from several companies. Sampling will update knowledge about the occurrence of Listeria in Norwegian companies and can help clarify and limit future outbreaks of listeriosis.
Rakfisk is a high risk product for botulism. Inspectors will investigate how the risk of Clostridium botulinum is managed.
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