Mattilsynet, Norway’s food safety authority, has reorganized its aquaculture oversight into a national division, effective September 1.
The new division aims to enhance efforts in improving fish health and welfare across the country.
Bård Skjelstad, a veterinarian with nearly 30 years of experience in the aquaculture industry, has been appointed as the director of the division. Skjelstad brings extensive leadership experience from roles in companies such as Aqualoop, Scale AQ, SalMar, and Aquagen.
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The new division will be structured into four departments: North, South, Audit and Analysis, and Professional Support, covering the entire coastline from Finnmark to Agder. The division will maintain approximately 80 staff members, consistent with current aquaculture supervision staffing levels.
Mattilsynet’s reorganization aims to strengthen the authority’s ability to monitor industry innovation, contribute to relevant regulations, and ensure effective risk-based oversight.
The new division formally began operations on September 1, with Skjelstad assuming his role on August 20.
Aquaculture operators are advised that they can continue to contact Mattilsynet as usual.
