A seafood risk tool for assessing and mitigating chemical and pathogen hazards in the aquaculture supply chain

Aquaculture sector expansion requires limiting the chemical and pathogen hazards that can disrupt seafood supply. A schema is presented here for mitigating these risks and informing policy. Intricate links between aquatic animals and their environment expose them to chemical and pathogenic hazards, which can disrupt seafood supply. Here we outline a risk schema for assessing potential impacts of chemical and microbial hazards on discrete subsectors of aquaculture-and control measures that may protect supply. As national governments develop strategies to achieve volumetric expansion in seafood production from aquaculture to meet increasing demand, we propose an urgent need for simultaneous focus on controlling those hazards that limit its production, harvesting, processing, trade and safe consumption. Policies aligning national and international water quality control measures for minimizing interaction with, and impact of, hazards on seafood supply will be critical as consumers increasingly rely on the aquaculture sector to supply safe, nutritious and healthy diets.

Automated summary

Expanding the aquaculture sector requires measures to limit chemical and pathogen hazards that can disrupt seafood supply. A risk schema is outlined for assessing potential impacts and implementing control measures, while policies aligning national and international water quality control measures are crucial for ensuring safe and healthy seafood supply.