- The function of packaging is to protect the finished feed from light and
moisture and other environmental contaminants. Together with labelling, it
should tell the farmer the identity of the manufacturer and the type of feed
it is.
- The feed label describes the contents of the sack or package and the species
for which it is intended. For bulk feed, that which may be delivered in quantity
as by truck, or sea container, the label and instructions for application
of the feed should be attached to the invoice.
- If the feed is medicated, warnings should be clearly evident along with
specific instructions for the species being fed.
- Details of what must be accomplished for packaging and labelling of finished
feed should include:
Bagging:
- The sack-off operator should check and clean all equipment before bagging;
- Scales should be tested for accuracy, including bag tare;
- Verify bags and/or tags are properly coded for the day’s run;
- At the beginning of a bagging run, initial bags of a new feed may need
to be set aside until proper consistency of product quality is observed. The
feed in these bag(s) may be remanufactured and does not necessarily have to
be thrown away. If the feeds are medicated the mill superintendent should
be consulted before re-running the feed; all bags should be properly labelled,
including instructions for feeding the species to be fed; and
- At the beginning and throughout every run, bags should be periodically
check-weighed; and all scales must be certified annually.
Labels and Tags:
- Labels and feed tags will conform to the law published by the jurisdiction
in which the aquaculture feed products are being sold.
It should be the responsibility of the feed mill manager
to:
- Co-ordinate the layout and printing of tags;
- Check the tags for accuracy and government compliance before tags are printed
in quantity;
- Labels should be received, handled and stored in a manner that prevents
mislabelling and assures the correct label is placed on the correct feed;
- All deliveries of feeds, whether bagged or in bulk, shall be adequately
labelled and contain appropriate instructions to assure the feed can be properly
fed to the aquatic species intended; and
- Only tags for the product being bagged should be in the bagging area. Remaining
or excess coded (dated) tags should be destroyed immediately. For bulk feeds
(as in large tonnages delivered by truck) the label and feeding instructions
should be attached to the invoice or delivery documents.
