8th Week

ISO 22000:2018 - Food Safety Management System

I learned how ISO 22000 is implemented in practice, particularly in areas such as documentation control, traceability, and corrective actions, which are essential for maintaining food safety and regulatory compliance. It integrates the principles of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) with risk-based thinking and Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycles at both the organizational and operational levels. 

Click ISO 22000 to know more about this regulation. 

International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT)

ICCAT is an intergovernmental organization responsible for the conservation of tunas and tuna-like species in the Atlantic Ocean and adjacent seas. ICCAT develops science-based management strategies, monitors fishing activities, and ensures compliance with conservation measures to maintain sustainable fish stocks.

When exporting tuna and swordfish from Sri Lanka, especially to countries under ICCAT jurisdiction, specific documentation is required to verify that the export meets regulatory and conservation standards. A Catch Certificate must be prepared, which includes critical information such as:

• Ocean of capture (e.g., Indian Ocean)

• Species and weight of the fish

• Type of fishing gear used

• Fishing vessel number and details

Additionally, to comply with ICCAT’s conservation measures, exporters must certify that:

• The Atlantic tuna and swordfish listed are greater than 15 kg (33 lbs) in weight,

• Or, if shipped as pieces, those pieces originated from fish that were each over 15 kg.

This documentation supports traceability and helps prevent illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, ensuring that exports align with global sustainability goals.

Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC)

IOTC is an intergovernmental organization established under the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. The primary objective of IOTC is to manage and conserve tuna and tuna-like species in the Indian Ocean and adjacent seas while also addressing the impacts of fisheries on other marine species. 

Key Functions of the IOTC:

• Monitoring tuna and related fish stocks in the Indian Ocean.

• Collecting and analyzing data on fisheries, catches, and fishing efforts.

• Implementing conservation and management measures, including fishing quotas, vessel monitoring, and size limits.

• Combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

• Promoting sustainable fishing practices among member countries.

Data Logger

I was introduced to the use of data loggers for monitoring the temperature of fish shipments intended for export. These devices play a critical role in maintaining the cold chain integrity during transportation.

When a fish lot is prepared for dispatch:

• A data logger is activated at the point of departure.

• It records temperature readings at 15-minute intervals, tracking the maximum, minimum, and average temperatures throughout the shipment duration.

• The device remains operational until the shipment is received and the logger is turned off at the destination.

This monitoring helps ensure that the core temperature of fish remains below 3 °C, which is vital for food safety, shelf-life, and product quality. Some international buyers require the temperature data logger report as part of their import protocols. It serves as proof that the cold chain was maintained from Sri Lanka’s airport to the final destination. 

Understanding this process highlighted the importance of temperature control in global seafood exports and gave me insights into real-time monitoring and customer assurance practices.

IFS Food Version 8 – International Featured Standard for Food 

IFS Food Version 8 standard is applied in the facility's quality assurance system, particularly in relation to documentation practices, risk management, GMP compliance, and internal audits. I also observed its role in supplier evaluation, product specifications, and preparation for third-party certification audits. 

Version 8 places greater emphasis on risk management, food defence, and food fraud prevention. Click IFS 8 to review the regulation document. 

BRCGS – Global Standard for Food Safety Issue 9 

BRCGS (Brand Reputation Compliance Global Standards) Global Standard for Food Safety Issue 9 is a globally recognized food safety and quality certification. I observed documentation practices, internal audits, and procedures that align with BRCGS standards—particularly in traceability, corrective/preventive actions, labelling, hygiene controls, and third-party testing. 

Key highlights of Issue 9 include:

• Emphasis on a hazard and risk-based food safety management system (HACCP)

• Strengthened focus on food safety culture

• Detailed environmental monitoring requirements

• Enhanced controls for product security, food defense, and food fraud

• Requirements for management commitment, supplier approval, and corrective actions

Click BRCGS to refer the regulation document.