Non-Tariff Barriers

Non-Tariff Measure

NTM classification

A59: Treatments to eliminate plants and animal pests or disease-causing organisms in the final product not elsewhere specified or prohibition of treatment 

Date when the measure came into force

04 September 2003 

Publication where the measure is specified

Government Notice No. R. 978 (Government Gazette 25171) Of 4 July 2003 

Regulation where the measure is specified

Compulsory Specification For Frozen Rock Lobster And Frozen Lobster Products Derived Therefrom 

Country/Region applying the measure

South Africa 

The rationale of the measure

This specification covers requirements for the handling, preparation,processing, packaging,freezing, storage and quality of frozen lobster tails, frozen whole lobster (cooked or raw) or any other frozen lobster product derived from lobsters of the families Palinuridae and Scyllaridae, and of the family Nephropidae (genera Homarus, Nephrops and Metanephrops, or any other species of lobster), intended for human consumption. It also covers requirements for factories and employees involved in the production. 

Coded list of objectives

X: For purposes n.e.s. 

Description of the measure

4.7.4 Lobster tails from deep-sea species may, where necessary during preparation for freezing, be treated with an antioxidant, such as sulfur dioxide or ascorbic acid, permitted by regulation under the Foodstuffs,Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act, 1972 (Act 54 of 1972), in order to prevent melanosis of the flesh, shell and telson (tail fin). The treatment of the tails shall not cause the flavour of the cooked product to be uncharacteristic of the species concerned.
5.3 Freezing
The stacking of products in freezers (other than plate freezers) shall be away from floor and wall surfaces and shall be such that air circulation between packages is not impeded. The freezing capacity of every plant shall be capable of freezing the product to -5 ̊C or lower within 8 h of its being placed in the freezer. The freezing process shall start with the minimum of delay after preparation and packing. Freezing capacity shall not be overtaxed. The freezing and the frozen storage of the product shall be carried out in a way that will obviate freezer burn. 

Reference of the measure

Regulation 4.7.4 and 5.3 

Measure also domestic

Yes 

Products affected by the measure.

Description

Frozen rock lobster and frozen lobster products derived therefrom 

Countries/Regions affected by the measure.

Description

All countries