Monitoring program for pharmaceuticals, illegal substances and contaminants in farmed fish - Annual report for 2023

Abstract

This report summarizes the results of the monitoring of illegal substances, pharmaceuticals, and contaminants in Norwegian farmed fish in 2023. In 2023, 2680 analyses were conducted on samples of 1815 fish. Samples examined for illegal substances were collected at all stages of farming and are representative of farmed fish under production. The samples were analyzed for substances with anabolic effect or unauthorized substances. Residues of testosterone were detected in one sample of rainbow trout. A follow-up investigation conducted by the Norwegian Food Safety Authority (Mattilsynet) concluded that contamination of the samples during sample taking was the cause of the positive result. Samples tested for approved veterinary drugs and contaminants were collected at slaughterhouses and are representative of Norwegian farmed fish ready for human consumption. Residues of the authorized anti-sealice agents emamectin, cypermethrin, and deltamethrin were found at concentrations below the respective Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) in fish meat. Residues of other authorized veterinary drugs, such as antibiotics, drugs against internal parasites, or sedatives, were not detected. The concentrations of environmental contaminants were found below the EU Maximum Levels (MLs), where those are established for fish.

Monitoring program for pharmaceuticals, illegal substances and contaminants in farmed fish - Annual report for 2023