Monitoring program for pharmaceuticals, illegal substances, and contaminants in farmed fish - Annual report for 2018

Abstract

This report summarises the monitoring data collected in 2018 on the status of illegal substances, pharmaceuticals and contaminants in Norwegian farmed fish. A total of 13 920 fish were collected. Samples examined for illegal compounds could be collected at all stages of farming and are representative of farmed fish under production. The samples were analysed for substances with anabolic effects or unauthorized substances. No residues of illegal compounds were detected. Samples tested for approved veterinary drugs and contaminants were collected at processing plants, and are representative of Norwegian farmed fish ready for human consumption. Residues of anti sea lice agents were found in four samples, the levels present were below the Maximum Residue Limit (MRL) for all samples. Other veterinary drugs, like antibiotics or drugs used against internal parasites were not found. No environmental contaminants were found above the EU maximum limits.