SAGB TO LAUNCH MONITORING SCHEME TO MEET NEW EU INORGANIC ARSENIC RULES IN SEAFOODS

SAGB to launch monitoring scheme to meet new EU Inorganic Arsenic rules in seafood. The Shellfish Association of Great Britain (SAGB) is intending to implement a new monitoring programme to help the UK shellfish industry comply with upcoming EU food safety rules on Inorganic Arsenic in seafood.

From 8 October 2025, Commission Regulation (EU) 2025/1891 will introduce maximum permitted levels of Inorganic Arsenic in a wide range of seafood, including all shellfish. This new regulation will therefore affect all UK exports of seafood to the EU. Inorganic Arsenic testing, and/or proof of compliance, may be required both in the UK (prior to export) and on arrival into the EU; and it may take up to 15 days to receive test results. Note that the new regulation only applies to Inorganic Arsenic levels in seafood.

To support the UK shellfish industry, SAGB will coordinate an Inorganic Arsenic monitoring programme, initially sending monthly samples of a variety of shellfish species, from differing ICES areas, for accredited laboratory testing.

SAGB are inviting all shellfish exporting businesses to join the programme. Costs will be shared among all participating businesses, and results shared only with those same participants. Testing for other heavy metals can also be arranged. This shared approach, modelled on the successful operation of the SAGB Crab Exporters data sharing group (for China), will reduce cost burdens, generate robust evidence, and ensure the UK shellfish industry remains compliant, competitive, and trusted in both domestic and export markets.

Please email David Jarrad at david@shellfish.org.uk for further information.