07 Apr 2025

A new date to meet FSMA 204 compliance

Seafood processors gain time to explore traceability for a strategic advantage

On March 20, 2025, the US FDA (Food and Drug Administration) extended the date of compliance for FSMA 204 rules. Originally set to be enforced from January 1, 2026, businesses have now been given an extra 30 months to reach compliance (a specific date has not been announced).

FSMA 204 increases stringency around food traceability. It affects the majority of businesses participating in food supply chains where food ends on US plates. While this is a reprieve for many businesses juggling multiple industry pressures, it is important to understand this extension does not change requirements for businesses to comply, just the date of compliance.

The value in seafood

Seafood is a valuable commodity on global markets, with high demand driving significant cross-border trade. With seafood representing an important protein source this trend shows no signs of slowing down. What is shifting is the pressure on retail suppliers, restaurants and wholesalers to meet consumer demands for product transparency, and processors to minimize loss of product and protect brand reputation by being able to instigate recalls with speed and specificity. If that wasn’t enough of a challenge, long, complex supply chains consisting of multiple businesses are a common feature as fish, shellfish and other marine products travel from farm or catch to shelves and plates.

Digital systems ease the road to regulatory compliance with a common language and an interoperable approach

Whether manually entered or collected by hardware or software, key data points are required to meet Food Traceability Regulations globally. Digital traceability systems enable reliable data to be used, shared and understood by all businesses along the supply chain, regardless of their size. This interoperable approach is critical in ensuring safe products and practices are being used across the supply chain and the seafood industry remains sustainable and viable in the future.

Value beyond compliance equals a competitive edge

While meeting regulations is necessary, digital traceability systems deliver greater value to seafood processors.

Business aspect	Benefits of traceability software	Strategic impact
Operational efficiency	Reduce waste Optimize inventory management Enhance production processes	Improved operational performance and cost reduction
Supply chain management	Real-time visibility Data-driven supplier benchmarking Insight-based decision making	Lower operational costs and improved supplier relationships
Risk management	Precise recall capabilities Minimal business disruption in recalls Brand reputation protection	Mitigates potential financial and reputational risks
Consumer relations	Transparency of product origin Build customer trust Enhance brand loyalty	Competitive differentiation in market positioning
Strategic growth	Transform data into strategic asset Enable sustainable business development Drive profitability	Long-term business growth and market adaptability

Marel’s AXIN Software provides processors with standardized software modules to cover the entire processing line including receiving, end of line (EOL) and dispatch. The modular approach enables implementation of a digital traceability software system that automates data collection where it will add the most value, gradually adding modules to enhance operations from source to table.

Digital data collection removes the risk of human error from manual entry and ensures audits and information requests can be met within minutes of request. To meet consumer demand for origin stories, specified data can be easily printed on labels.

The combination of our modular approach and ongoing expert support ensures affordable options are available for businesses or all sizes.

If you’re ready to get ahead of the regulatory tidal wave and explore how traceability can benefit your business our experts are ready to discuss your unique challenges and opportunities. Reach out today.

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