Frequently Asked Questions

How do I employ NSF Surefish to help me understand the quality of seafood products that I am trading?

Sampling and Lot Inspection - Most clients hire NSF Surefish to evaluate product through sampling from each of the lots involved. NSF Surefish inspectors are trained in statistically valid sampling techniques and in the quality attributes of the product inspected. NSF Surefish will ask clients for specifications to inspect to. If no specifications are presented, NSF Surefish will quantify the attributes per standard NSF Surefish methodologies. The results of the inspection will be presented in a standardized NSF Surefish report format. Inspectors are available to elaborate on the inspection report if desired by a client.

Plant Audits - NSF Surefish inspectors are trained to conduct audits of producer‚s sanitation, quality and/or HACCP programs and processing facilities. In addition to actual product inspection, these audits can provide in depth information about the practices of the producer that will impact long term supplier relationships.

How far in advance do I have to order my inspection?

NSF Surefish makes every effort to accommodate the operational needs of our clients. However we take offers on a first come, first serve basis. Depending on the nature of your transaction, NSF Surefish will work with the vessels, brokers, cold storage, or agent to administer the sampling and inspection. NSF Surefish is aware of the exigencies of seafood trades and knows how to administer the inspection in the most efficient manner.

How long does it take to get an inspection report?

Generally, the final inspection report will be made within 3-4 days of the initiation of the inspection.

Can I rely on the information in the inspection report to make transaction decisions?

NSF Surefish inspection reports are formatted to give objective, specific information about the product sampled. Of course the report reflects the conditions of the samples inspected only. Then, the sampling must be good enough to be representative of the overall lot. NSF Surefish inspectors feel that the report reflects the lot to a large extent if they have had the opportunity to adequately sample the lot. In the event that NSF Surefish inspectors have not sampled the product themselves or the sampling plan has been provided by the client, the report will so state.

Why should I use a NSF Surefish inspection?

NSF Surefish inspections add value to seafood transactions. The information provided reduces risk, enhances marketability, and provides important data that can be used to improve product handling during processing.

How do I order a NSF Surefish inspection?

You may contact our headquarters office in Seattle or contact the branch office that will do your inspection. All NSF Surefish employees have been trained to receive your inspection information. We ask that you complete an inspection order form so that the pertinent information regarding the inspection is memorialized.