PROCESSING

PELAGIC FISH PROCESSING IN SCOTLAND

Scottish caught mackerel, herring and blue whiting is much sought after in markets around the world. The Scottish and UK onshore pelagic processing sector is one of the most modern in the world, equipped with state-the-art equipment to ensure the provision of a wide range of high quality pelagic products.

The primary and secondary pelagic processing sectors support around 2,000 jobs, underlining its importance to communities around the country, providing a significant input to the national economy

Scottish pelagic processors have a broad product portfolio that includes canned mackerel, smoked mackerel, kippers (smoked herring), fresh and frozen fillets, and marinaded herring. Much of the processing output is exported.

Like the catching sector, Scottish processors recognise the need for responsible and sustainable management of pelagic fisheries, which is why they are an active and founding member of SPSG.

The Scottish Pelagic Processors Association (SPPA) maintains a strong partnership with UK pelagic fishermen, who land their catch directly at SPPA processing facilities. This collaboration plays a crucial role in supporting a significant part of Scotland’s economy.

Founded in 1976 as the Herring Buyers Association, the SPPA was established to support and represent buyers and processors of pelagic species. It is also a founding member of the Scottish Pelagic Sustainability Group (SPSG), which has helped the Scottish industry achieve Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification for North Sea herring.

The Scottish Pelagic Processors Association (SPPA) maintains a strong partnership with UK pelagic fishermen