FSMA · Traceability · Education
For Producers
Plain-language resources to help independent fishermen and small seafood businesses navigate FSMA compliance and traceability requirements.
FSMA Basics
What is FSMA?
The Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) is the FDA's framework for preventing foodborne illness rather than responding to outbreaks after the fact. For seafood producers, the key rule is the Seafood HACCP regulation, plus the Food Traceability Final Rule (Section 204) which takes effect in 2026.
Who does the Traceability Final Rule apply to?
Entities that manufacture, process, pack, or hold foods on the FDA's Food Traceability List (FTL). Ahi tuna, salmon, smoked fish, fresh-cut fish, crustaceans, and bivalve mollusks are all on the FTL. Very small businesses and certain direct-to-consumer sales have exemptions.
What records do I need to keep?
Key Data Elements (KDEs) for Critical Tracking Events (CTEs) — harvest, cooling/processing, and shipping. You need: harvester name and license, vessel info, fishing area, harvest date, product description, and lot code linkages throughout the chain.
How do I comply without an IT department?
Platforms like Wholechain are designed for exactly this scenario. A mobile app that records harvest data and generates compliant lot codes, synced with your buyers downstream. No server, no programmer required.
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Whether you are just learning about FSMA or ready to implement traceability — we have resources and partners to help.