Kerfiskröfur

Kerfiskröfur is an Icelandic term that translates roughly to "fish waste requirements" or "fish residue demands." It refers to the regulations and guidelines established by Icelandic authorities concerning the handling, processing, and utilization of byproducts and waste generated from the fishing and fish processing industries. These regulations are designed to promote sustainability, maximize resource utilization, and minimize environmental impact.

The primary focus of kerfiskröfur is to ensure that all edible and valuable parts of fish that are not used for direct human consumption are processed in a way that benefits the economy and environment. This includes organs, heads, bones, skin, and trimmings. The regulations often dictate standards for hygiene, storage, transportation, and the types of products that can be derived from these byproducts.

Common products derived from fish waste under kerfiskröfur include fishmeal and fish oil, which are used in animal feed and aquaculture. Additionally, there is increasing interest in utilizing these byproducts for pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, and biofuels, aligning with a circular economy approach. The Icelandic Directorate of Fisheries and other relevant bodies are responsible for enforcing these regulations. Compliance with kerfiskröfur is crucial for fishing and processing companies operating in Iceland.