A Scottish pilot project has developed a new digital tool that links vessel and factory data to improve traceability for pelagic fish, including mackerel and herring.
The project, called Catch to Batch, connects data from individual fishing hauls through processing and distribution, aiming to strengthen market confidence in Scottish pelagic products.
The initiative has been led by the Scottish Pelagic Fishermen’s Association (SPFA) and tested using the vessels Altaire and Artemis, alongside Northbay Pelagic in Peterhead and a range of industry and retail partners.
Linking data from sea to shore
The system brings together data that already exists but was not previously connected. Information collected on board from routine self-sampling of each haul is linked to mandatory vessel reports and factory processing data.
Each landing is tracked through a unique batch code, allowing fish to be traced from capture to processing and onward sale.
An online platform records haul details, fish sizes and tank storage plans. This allows vessels to send a pre-landing report to processors and receive a post-landing Catch Quality Report in return.
Benefits for science and markets
According to SPFA Chief Scientific Officer Dr Steven Mackinson, the pilot shows that linking vessel and factory data is both possible and practical, delivering benefits for scientific data collection, traceability, and understanding catch quality.
Industry partners say the system reduces the burden of tracebacks and helps demonstrate sustainability credentials to buyers and consumers.
Plans to scale up
With support from processors, producer organisations, and buyers, the next step is to expand Catch to Batch across all Scottish pelagic vessels and factories involved in the national science data programme.