This Regulation establishes a comprehensive framework to ensure the safety and hygiene of food products derived from marine mammals (such as whales and seals) in Norway. It applies to all stages of capture and production, primarily from Norwegian vessels, and aims to safeguard public health, product quality, and integrity. The rules require strict hygiene standards aligned with EU food safety legislation, including mandatory inspections of animals after capture by a qualified hygiene officer, approval of vessels and processing facilities by the Norwegian Food Safety Authority (Mattilsynet), and documented internal control systems. Only meat deemed safe after inspection may enter the food chain, and it must be handled, landed, and processed at approved facilities with proper notification procedures. The regulation also sets detailed requirements for labeling with identification marks, establishes oversight and enforcement powers for authorities, allows limited exemptions in special cases, and provides for penalties in case of violations.
Norway · 2019-03-27