FROZEN AT SEA FILLETS ASSOCIATION (FASFA)

Frozen at Sea Fillets Association (FASFA). Read Fish Focus’ latest publication focusing on seafood processing.

What Are Frozen at Sea (FAS) Fillets? FAS fillets are derived from cod and haddock caught in the cold, clear waters of the North Atlantic and Barents Sea. These fish are processed and frozen directly on the vessel within hours of being caught, preserving their freshness and nutritional value. This method ensures that the fillets maintain optimal quality until they reach fish and chip
shops, restaurants and retailers across the UK.

Consumer Perception and Education

Julie Waites, Executive Director of Frozen at Sea Fillets Association (FASFA) told Fish Focus:

“Despite the high quality of FAS products, some consumers remain sceptical about frozen seafood. FASFA addresses these misconceptions by providing information on the benefits of freezing at sea, including enhanced freshness and reduced waste. The association’s efforts aim to shift consumer perception and encourage informed choices when purchasing seafood.“

“Through our commitment to sustainability, quality and education, FASFA continues to play a crucial role in the UK seafood industry. By representing key stakeholders and promoting best
practices, the association ensures that consumers have access to high-quality, responsibly sourced seafood.” Julie added.

“I have recently been on a visit to both Iceland and Norway where there was a great opportunity to meet some of my members, their vessels and the crew – something I do more readily in the UK. We were able to showcase to the National Fish & Chip Award winners of 2025 and their sales teams the FAS fishing fleets commitment to supply the UK with high quality, sustainable products for the UK fish and chip shops.

“In Norway and Iceland the delegation were able to engage face to face with our overseas partners to learn about processes and fully experience the fishing culture. I would like to say a huge thank you to to Business Iceland, Seafood from Iceland and the Norwegian Seafood Council for coordinating and organising the itinerary. Thank you to my members for the generosity with their time and their wonderful hospitality, they were both most memorable visits.”

The Frozen at Sea Fillets Association (FASFA) is a UK-based trade organisation established in 2000. It represents UK and International fishing companies, deep sea fishing vessels and distributors specialising in frozen-at-sea (FAS) cod and haddock fillets. These fillets are crucial to the supply of Cod and Haddock fillets to the approximately 10,000 UK fish & Chip shops as the supply has to be both reliable and sustainable.

FASFA’s mission is to promote a thriving, sustainable and profitable fish and chip industry in the UK by providing high-quality FAS products sourced from responsibly managed fisheries in the
North Atlantic and Barents Sea. FASFA’s Role in the Seafood Industry FASFA plays a pivotal role in supporting the Frozen At Sea fillet sector by:

• Advocating for Sustainability: FASFA members source their products from responsibly managed fisheries in regions such as Norway, Iceland, the Faroe Islands, Greenland ensuring long-term viability of fish stocks.
• Promoting Quality Standards: By highlighting the benefits of FAS products, FASFA educates both the trade and consumers about the superior quality of frozen-at-sea fillets and as a climate smart food source.
• Supporting Industry Events: The association actively participates in events like National Fish and Chip Day and the National Fish and Chip Awards, emphasising the importance of quality seafood in British cuisine.

For more information, visit the FASFA website https://fasfa.co.uk