Quality Assurance

Background

Wholesome aquatic animal and plant products are the cornerstone of success for the US aquaculture industry. Farm raised organisms are nutritious and of high quality. There is general consumer perception that farm raised aquatic animals are wholesome, high quality products. However, consumer perceptions can be readily influenced by misinformation or a breakdown in product quality. Quality assurance programs can help ensure continued production of wholesome products and enhance consumer perceptions. Quality assurance programs can also discredit misinformation.

The NAA has helped develop a voluntary, producer focused quality assurance program for finfish and for shellfish. These programs emphasize integrated health management. The NAA Quality Assurance Programs integrate well into the US Food and Drug Administration mandatory seafood processors safety program.

Processors, distributors and retailers must work cooperatively to ensure product wholesomeness.

Policy

The NAA Encourages:

1. Participation in a finfish or shellfish producers quality assurance program by all producers.
2. Consumer education.

Approved March 1999