The new EU regulation on brine freezing marks a decisive turning point for food safety and the competitiveness of the European fleet. With the adoption of Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/1449, the European Commission has amended Annex III of Regulation (EC) 853/2004, introducing stricter requirements for purse seiners using brine-freezing systems. Starting 27 January 2026, only vessels capable of ensuring a continuous, validated freezing process at –18 °C will be allowed to place tuna on the EU market.
The measure, published in the Official Journal on 29 October 2025, represents a concrete acknowledgment of the technological investments made by European operators.
Real-time monitoring and certified vessels
The new legislative framework requires continuous electronic monitoring of brine temperature. These data must be accessible to competent authorities to guarantee traceability and compliance. Only approved vessels equipped with compliant freezing systems will be listed on the EU’s authorized register.
The objective is to eliminate fraudulent practices involving the refreezing of tuna—often associated with high histamine levels. The European Commission acted after years of inspections and RASFF (Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed) notifications highlighting health risks linked to improperly treated fish.
A recognition for the European fleet
The regulation rewards the European fleet, which has long implemented freezing and control procedures exceeding minimum international standards. Its adoption strengthens operators that have invested in innovation, digital systems and verifiable quality processes.
For the first time, the EU is aligning market access with the technological and safety levels required of its own operators, establishing a global reference model.
Economic and health impact
Full implementation of the regulation will naturally reshape the international tuna market. Non-EU fleets will have to meet the same requirements to export to the Union. This will raise overall product quality and reduce consumer risks.
The Commission’s focus on histamine hazards and labelling fraud demonstrates its commitment to public health while safeguarding responsible businesses.
Toward a more transparent and competitive market
The new EU regulation on brine freezing strengthens consumer trust and enhances the reputation of European-caught tuna. Clear requirements and validated vessel processes will enable more effective controls and greater transparency along the entire supply chain.
Europe thus reaffirms its leadership in the governance of frozen seafood products, consolidating coherence between safety, sustainability and industrial innovation.
Europêche welcomed the adoption of the Regulation, emphasizing how it rewards the technological and sanitary excellence already achieved by the European fleet.
Stay updated with the most relevant news in the seafood industry—subscribe to our weekly newsletter.
