Transportation of live salmon
Long distance transportation of live fish is done in special vessels called well boats. Well boats carry salmon between aquaculture sites or to the slaughterhouse. The well may be open or closed, depending on the level of pathogenic organisms in the water and if the fish have any illnesses. A closed well makes sure that infections do not spread to the water and vice versa.
Transportation of farmed salmon falls under the regulatory framework of transport of aquaculture animals. The means of transport is approved by the Norwegian Food Safety Authority (the FSA), and staff with a good knowledge of animal welfare and the needs of salmon should be carted for throughout the journey. Transportation staff must be able to prove that they have sufficient practical and theoretical knowledge on the subject.
Transportation of processed seafood
Regulations are also in place for transport of processed seafood to consumers worldwide. It is important that the food is not exposed to changing temperatures or other factors that affect the quality of products. To make sure that the temperature does not exceed four degrees during transport, the salmon is packed with ice in boxes keeping it cool.
15% of fresh seafood exports from Norway are sent by air. This is based on exports to overseas markets (Africa, Asia, Northern Europe, Oceania and South America). 85% of fresh seafood from Norway goes to Europe using a combination of road and rail transport.
Useful links
Regulations for transport of aquaculture animals (in Norwegian only)