Washington State Seafood Regulations: A Comprehensive Guide

Establishments selling seafood in Washington must comply with both federal and state laws. Fish and shellfish are subject to specific regulations as well as general food safety laws.

Significance

• Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, and state laws concerning seafood are implemented in order to decrease the likelihood of food born illness. They do so by reducing cross contamination between raw fish and ready to eat foods as well as ensuring the safe storage and packaging of seafood.

Types

• Though the FDA does not specifically regulate seafood at the retail level, Washington has adopted a modified version of the FDA's Food Code, dictating storage temperature, packaging and labeling requirements for seafood. Retail establishments must acquire seafood in accordance with approved federal sources.

Considerations

• The FDA amended the Food Code in 2009. As of February 2011, the state of Washington is currently in the process of revising the updated Food Code, which contains new regulations for seafood.