Quality and cold chain management focus of BIM pilot programme with Foyle Co-Op

BIM is running a pilot quality programme with Foyle Co-Op in Co. Donegal focusing on fish handling and cold chain management from catch to delivery. The aim of this activity is to develop skills among the seafood industry to help maximise yield from catch ensuring continued access to markets and new market opportunities.

Vincent Ryan, Domestic Market Development Executive, BIM referred to the importance of cold chain management and areas such as washing, grading, icing and storage of fish to deliver high quality produce for market. He also highlighted how mishandling at any stage of this process can result in a lower value catch. He said:

“Every second counts. From the moment fish are on deck they are being exposed to sunlight. Air starts warming them immediately. It’s crucial to get the fish core temperature between zero and two degrees to avoid spoil.”

Learnings from this initial stage of the pilot programme are being used to inform a standard operating procedure for the Co-op to improve the quality of fish being landed.

Feedback from Foyle Co-Op fishermen who have taken part in the programme has been positive with other fishing organisations around the country expressing an interest in getting involved in a similar type of project.