Herring Academy - Certifications

The seal of approval

Norway is a world leader when it comes to quality and sustainable seafood – and Norwegian herring is no exception. As a pelagic fish, it is notoriously hard to keep track of, but we have a pioneering system of managing and monitoring in place, with quotas to keep our numbers in check.

Our respectful relationship with the sea has led to Norway being certified by a whole host of important organisations. In fact, both Norwegian spring spawning herring and North Sea herring have been MSC certified since 2009.

Marine Stewardship Council

The Marine Stewardship Council's (MSC) fishery certification programme and seafood ecolabel recognises and rewards sustainable fishing. We have the world's highest proportion of MSC-certified fisheries here in Norway.

KRAV

KRAV is a key player in the organic market in our neighbouring Sweden. KRAV-certified fisheries must have organic standards to acheive the KRAV label:

A sound, natural environment
Solid care for animals
Good health
Social responsibility

United Nations

In 2007, an independent research institute and think-tank carried out a survey to find out how fishing nations are dealing with the challenges presented by illegal fishing, unregistered and unreported fish. It also delved into the UN's rules of governance pertaining to responsible fishing practice. The conclusion? We're please to say that Norway was listed as a world leader in fishing management.

The food safety system

As the second largest seafood exporter in the world, food safety is at the top of our agenda. In fact, it’s at the heart of everything we do.

There is a growing concern among consumers and industries around food safety. To meet this demand for information, we have developed a thorough system dedicated to ensuring the wellbeing of all parties, from fisherman to consumer.

Political Authorities

Risk management
Setting of protection levels

Norwegian Food Safety Authority

Risk management

The Norwegian Scientific Comittee for Food Safety

Risk assessments

Knowledge Institutions

Risk assessments and advice
National Institute of Nutrition and Seafood Research (NIFES)
National Veterinary Institute
Norwegian Institute of Public Health
Institute of Marine Research (IMR)
Norwegian Seafood Council (NSC)

Laboratories

Analyses

The cooperation of these bodies allows us to break down and analyse the entire seafood production process. By implementing this seafood safety system, we can ensure quality and sustainable seafood, always.

Our endorsements and certifications

The Norwegian Ministry of Trade, Industry and Coastal Affairs

Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries (MTIF)

What they do: Develop regulations and ensure compliance

The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries manages the entire fisheries and aquaculture industry, including ports and sea transport infrastructure. The authority forms consistent policy for protecting marine resources, and seriously commits to the safety of Norwegian seafood.

The MTIF sets rules and regulations, and conducts risk management. The high quality and safety of food to global consumers is provided by the Ministry ensuring:

A safe marine environment
Quality management at every stage of the food chain
Interaction with consumers
International cooperation to share scientific research and experiences

Norwegian Food Safety Authority (NFSA)

What they do: Implement regulations and conduct risk management, from sea to sale

Reporting to the MTIF, the NFSA ensures consumers are given seafood that is both healthy and safe by uniting different aspects of the food chain. They implement safety regulations by following both national and international standards.

The NFSA work with the National Institute of Nutrition and Seafood Research to conduct risk management, risk assessments and risk communication. The results of this process are apparent in the high quality of our deliciously healthy herring. At each stage of production, traceability is key.

National Institute of Nutrition and Seafood Research (NIFES)

What they do: Risk assessment

NIFES is an independent research institute that monitors the entire food chain. Their research not only focuses on producing good quality fillets, but also looks into the effects of seafood in human nutrition.

NIFES acts as an advisor to the Norwegian government. They report directly to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries with matters concerning all areas of the seafood production chain. Due to their comprehensive surveillance, the safety of Norwegian seafood is continually assessed.

Norwegian Seafood Council (NSC)

What they do: Marketing and safety information provider

NSC works as a comprehensive marketing organisation for our seafood industry. They work as an advisory body to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries.

The council’s purpose is to foster global interest in Norwegian seafood. They do this by actively communicating with public and private research institutions, the seafood industry and consumers, providing the public with relevant and accurate seafood information.