White Fish Processors Code of Practice

Since its launch in March 2008 many companies have successfully gained accreditation; several have gone on to achieve BRC accreditation.
The Whitefish Processors Code of Practice will help to drive higher standards in the processing industry and will help to secure its long term future. The consumer wants to know that the fish it eats is from sustainable sources, but it also wants high quality and high standards. The code will deliver both. It is also appropriate this is an initiative from Grimsby the home of seafood processing. There is now the opportunity to extend coverage on a global basis especially to developing countries. This new initiative is currently been explored by the FMA and the Grimsby Institute of Higher and Further Education (GIHFE).
The Code is about food safety, good manufacturing practices and adherence to legislation. The processors job is not easy - he has to compete globally for supply and is well aware of the problems with quota restrictions. This will be a working document that is not only user friendly, but will add value to businesses. The Code has been accepted by the Foods Standard Agency; this elevation will undoubtedly bring additional kudos to the scheme. The FMA and GIFHE will promote CoP will transfer to ensure its future is secure and standards are implemented.

Whitefish Code of Practice Awareness Session

A 2 hour training session is being developed alongside the Whitefish Code Practice. This aim is to help businesses comply with the requirements of:

- EU regulation 178/2002 on the General Principles of Food Law
- EU regulation 852/2004 on the Hygiene of Foodstuffs
- EU regulation 853/2004 on the Hygiene rules for food and animal origin
- Food Hygiene (England) Regulations 2005

Who is this aimed at?
This session is aimed at all white fish processors, including traditional fish merchants and any company that directly handles/processors white fish.

What will you do?
Building on the work of the Grimsby Fish Merchants Association, this session will provide an overview to the CoP with a step by step guide to help you complete this for your business. This may be the owner of the business or other member of staff responsible for the day-to-day running.

Benefits of attending this session
By demonstrating that your business meets these requirements will mean that the local enforcement officers have greater confidence in the standards your business work toward. Therefore this will enable your business to:

- comply with the regulations relevant for your sector
- provide the basis of “due diligence” defence
- show documentary evidence of the actions the business is taking to maintain food safety
- improve the business reputation
- reduce levels of waste
- provide confidence to your customer and inspectors that you are achieving legal and quality standards

After the session
It is the business owner’s responsibility to ensure the CoP is completed and updated, however a team of trained support will be available to provide assistance for you to complete the pack.