Shellfish Classification and Monitoring Industry Forum

During 2017 Food Standards Scotland held a Shellfish Review consultation exercise on a number of proposed changes to the shellfish classification and monitoring system which applies in Scotland.  

• Read the output of the consultation exercise

At a workshop for industry stakeholders, held in Aberdeen on 20th April 2017, FSS proposed that a Shellfish Classification and Monitoring Industry Forum (SCMIF) be set up to progress the issues that arose in the consultation. The first meeting of the SCMIF was held on 2nd October 2017.

• See the Terms of Reference for the group   

The SCMIF will enable formal engagement between FSS and the wild and aquaculture bivalve shellfish industries which are subject to classification and monitoring by FSS. The SCMIF is responsible for:

• ensuring food safety priorities remain the focus of controls applied throughout the food chain,
• encouraging opportunity for joint working between industry stakeholders and FSS,
• providing Industry viewpoint to help shape policy and delivery,
• identifying opportunities for efficiencies in the FSS monitoring programme,
• identifying opportunities for improving flexibilities within programme for food businesses,
• reviewing impact of any changes and associated benefits/disbenefits,
• considering operational and other relevant risks and impacts from implementing legislative or policy changes, and
• recognising and understanding the differences between classified shellfish sectors (e.g. aquaculture and wild catch); tailoring sector specific solutions where appropriate.

In line with the FSS Corporate Plan we would intend that the purpose of the group is to ensure food is safe and authentic, that responsible businesses can flourish, and the international reputation of the sector is underpinned by a robust regulatory system whether operating in the domestic, EU or wider global markets.

• SCMIF minutes - 2 October 2017